2 Amazing Ways How Family Caregivers can Take Care of Themselves

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It is important for family caregivers to identify their personal barrier. Caregiving is a major responsibility and may lead to stress and fatigue. It is better to change your behavior and try to solve problems in a better way. Here are 5 effective ways for family caregivers to start self-care

1. Reducing Personal Stress

Your attitude towards a certain event and how you deal with it is important to control stress. Stress is also caused by several other factors. If you are the only family caregiver for your loved one then you may feel stressful. Your relationship and connection with your loved one matter the most while caregiving. Family caregivers help their loved one sometimes to heal their relationships. If you are unable to manage stress then it may be hard for you to reduce stress when caring for your loved one. Find and embrace the things that give you confidence and make them stronger over time. Caregiving situations may take a toll on you if your loved one has Alzheimer's or dementia. Here are some ways to help you reduce stress while caring for your loved one.

Recognize the early warning signs of stress and don't take it for granted. It may include irritability, sleep problems, and forgetfulness. 

Try to figure out your own warning signs and make changes according to it. Don't overwhelm yourself with the stressful feelings.

Identify the possible sources of stress. Take time and ask yourself about the things or situations that are causing you stress. 

Identify your own problems which you can change. As a family caregiver, you can only change yourself not your loved one. Frustration and Chaos may increase if you try to change things over which you have no control. 

Take stern actions to reduce your stress which may give you back a sense of control. Walking, gardening, meditation or having coffee with a friend can reduce stress. Write down some of the stress reducers that can work for you.

2.  Setting clear Goals

Make and write goals you would like to achieve in the next 3-6 months. Setting goals may help you in taking care of yourself. Here are some examples for setting clear and achievable goals for you:

Take a break from your caregiving responsibilities. Mark the days on your calendar and try to restore your energy in the free time.  

Get help from your siblings or friends with the caregiving tasks. You can hire a caregiver on a temporary basis to help your loved one in bathing and preparing meals.

Engage in stress relieving activities that may make you feel healthier.

You are more likely to reach a goal if you break it down into smaller steps. Set a goal and ask yourself that what steps you can take to reach your goal. Draw an action plan and decide which step you should take first and when. 

Make a doctor's appointment for a physical check-up once in a month. Even if you are strong enough, your mental health may decline when caregiving for your loved one. 

Take regular breaks from your caregiving responsibility every week.

Make a habit of walking thrice in a week for 10 minutes or more.