Today is a day to honor all of the caregivers in our country caring for the sick, elderly, disabled and young children. We at Healthlink Advocates, interact with caregivers every day and see the heavy physical and emotional workload they bear for the care of their patients. As mothers, we know the work that goes into raising a child. Caring for the disabled is a demanding job as well. These are all of our heroes today and every day. These heroes matter and need to be cared for also.
Caregivers Matter
Caregivers are such an important part of our lives. We may be a caregiver or we may have been taken care of by one. It is a quiet and oftentimes unrecognized service. There is tremendous pressure that caregivers are under whether it is caring for a senior, a mom caring for a child or a nurse caring for her patients. The stress that caregivers experience is real and needs support.
Signs of Caregiver Stress
Physical and/or emotional exhaustion
Irritability or anger
Guilty about not wanting to care
Reduced feelings of empathy and sympathy
Headaches
Trouble sleeping
Relationship problems
Feeling disconnected
Isolating oneself
Gaining or losing weight
Abusing alcohol or drugs
Strategies for Dealing with Caregiver Stress
Even the most resilient and resourceful caregiver can experience caregiver stress. These signs are real and they need the support of family, friends and possibly professionals. There are several things that one can do to prevent this stress or to lessen it once it is recognized. It is vital that caregivers find the right support and are aware of the need for ongoing support.
Caregiver Tips
Be able to ask for help and create a support network of family, friends and a paid professional
Pay attention to physical and emotional wellbeing
Eat right and try and avoid too much sugar and caffeine
Exercise
Do breathing exercises regularly throughout the day
Walks in nature can be soothing and healing
Simplify life
Seek simple and small things you can be grateful for
Practice mindfulness, meditation, prayer or what every practice lifts your spirit
Join a support group.
Take A Break!
Taking a break from caregiving can be one of the best things you can do for yourself. For mothers, hiring a babysitter can give the needed break. For an adult child of a senior loved one, you can hire a home health aide, utilize a senior day program or pay for a respite stay at a local senior living facility. If you are a caregiver for a senior loved one you can contact your local county Agency on Aging to see what services are available in your location.
As private healthcare advocates and coaches, we are so proud to serve and support our clients and all caregivers today.