Ways to Relieve Family Caregiver Stress
Caregiving for a loved one can be incredibly rewarding at times, but there are also moments where the work and stress catch up to you. After all, being a family caregiver requires an enormous amount of time, energy, and emotional investment.
Strategies for Caregivers to Prevent Burnout
To avoid ending up with caregiver burnout, which has the potential to be harmful, it’s crucial to prioritize your own needs. Here are several ideas for managing stressful feelings and maintaining well being on your caregiving journey.
Take Care of Your Physical Health
Many caregivers have trouble fitting in high quality rest, exercise, and nutrition. These habits are all essential for maintaining energy levels, so be sure to prioritize your own physical health. Try your best to eat well balanced meals, incorporate exercise, and don’t slack on sleep. The Sherwood Regional Family YMCA offers many adult fitness classes to help support your movement goals. If you need further assistance, talk to your doctor for advice.
Practice Stress Relief Techniques
In addition to caring for your body, protecting your mental and emotional health is equally important. Deep breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation can help you calm your mind during overwhelming moments. Find what works best for you and try to make it a part of your every day routine.
Have a Support System
It’s crucial to stay connected to your close friends and family members. Do your best to schedule regular visits, or call them as often as possible. Additionally, joining an online or in person caregiver support group can be beneficial. The Alzheimer’s Association, National MS Society, and Parkinson’s Foundation offer many helpful resources for family caregivers.
Accept Help
It may be difficult to lean on others, but you simply can’t do everything on your own all of the time. Make a list of ways other family members can help you. This may include helping transport the senior to appointments or cooking meals for them.
Feel Your Feelings
Experiencing negative emotions, like anger towards your care recipient, is normal. Trying to push these feelings away will only make resentment grow and lead to a bigger problem. It’s okay to cry, vent, and generally have bad days.
Consider Professional Assistance
If you’ve started to exhibit signs of burnout, it’s time to speak with a professional counselor, who can give you coping strategies. You should also consider using respite care services from an in-home care agency like Visiting Angels. Utilizing these services will give you more time to focus on your own needs.
Visiting Angels Is Here for Caregivers
You’re not alone on this journey. Visiting Angels Newberg is here to help you every step of the way. Whether you could use a quick break from your duties or a longer sabbatical, our respite care services are a lifeline for family caregivers in need of extra support.
Getting started with respite care is easy. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re looking forward to being your dependable partner in care!