As a caregiver, you must make your own health and emotional well being top priorities. Without doing so, you could be at risk for depression and chronic illness, and a decline in the quality of your life.
Taking Care of Yourself When You Are a Caregiver
Make time to take a look at your stressors. The following questions will help guide you to get the emotional help you need. The key is to take the time to take care of you!
- Have you identified the sources of stress?
- Are your stress factors or depression due to your caregiving situation?
- Are you looking at your situation like a glass that is half-full or half-empty?
- What actions are you welling to do to help change your situation?
- Have you taken the time to write down what your challenges are so you can make corrective changes?
Becoming a Healthy, Effective Caregiver: BIG Picture Questions
- What can you do to take care of yourself and your own needs?
- How often do you exercise?
- Do you meditate or practice another relaxation technique?
- Who can you reach out to for support?
- Are you able to get a good night’s sleep?
- Have you postponed your own medical appointments or needs in order to care for your loved one?
- How often do you exercise?
- Do you use alcohol, tobacco, or medications to cope with depression?
- Do you feel exhausted?
- Are you on an emotional roller coaster?
- Do you overeat or not eat enough?
- Do you give yourself healthy, nurturing foods?
- Do you make time for social activities and friends?
- Do you qualify for the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) benefits?
- How do you feel about engaging a therapist to help you sort out your feelings about being a caregiver?
- Do you blame yourself for your loved one’s condition?
- Are feelings of grief welling up inside of you?
- Do you feel angry or depressed about your loved one’s mental or physical state?
- Do you feel angry or depressed about being a caregiver?
- Do you feel burned out as a caregiver?
- Is there someone within your family who you resent for their actions or lack of actions concerning your loved one?
- How can you nurture yourself more?
- How much can you realistically handle as your loved one’s caregiver?
- What resources do you have for respite care so that you can take time to recharge?
- What kind of health do you want for yourself?
We Are Proud to be
💞ENDORSED BY
(Click on Live Logos to Review)
We are here to help. Contact us today if you need support.