Avoid Caregiver's Stress
Stress Relief for Caregivers of Disabled People
This highlights the importance of taking care of the caregiver, avoiding and reducing stress, and increasing support - to make caregiving more effective and rewarding
However much a caregiver likes or loves the person being cared for, the emotional and physical demands of the role can be stressful. Sometimes, it is easy to forget that the caregiver is important too.
Stress can cause damaging emotional and physical symptoms, and should be faced before it harms your health and makes you a less effective caregiver.
There is a lot of support available. Different sorts of support include the following:
Family, Neighbours and Friends
Write a list of tasks that you would appreciate help with: spending time with the person while you go shopping, doing some cooking for you, weeding the garden… people like to help. Try it! If they offer help, never turn down an offer; they may not ask again.
Professionals
Visit your doctor for regular examinations, not just with the person you care for, but also for yourself. Write lists of things that concern you, or questions to ask. It is easy to forget what to say in the doctor’s surgery, so a list is helpful. Ask for help from other relevant professionals too.
Keep a list of useful telephone numbers of local services that you can contact for help.
Local Support
See if there is a local caregivers’ group. Talking with others who have similar experiences can help you to feel understood and part of a community of friendly people. You can get lots of practical advice from other caregivers. You may also laugh together at certain aspects of your role. When caregivers get together, they often find that they share similar feelings. Also, look for online groups where you can exchange ideas, find friendship and ask questions.
Time for Yourself
Set aside regular time do something just for yourself. This may be a special time daily, where you can listen to music, read the newspaper or go for a walk. Socialize with others and maintain your hobbies and interests. Keep in contact with the world outside your caregiving role. If possible, take short breaks away, asking family members or local support services to supply care in your absence.
Your Health
Eat a well-balanced diet with fresh fruit and vegetables daily. Do not resort to comfort-eating, smoking or drinking too much alcohol if you feel trapped at home. Organize physical activities – these can boost your energy and your mood. Make sure you get enough sleep. If your sleep is disturbed by the person that you care for, discuss this with your doctor, to find a practical solution without delay. If caregiving duties involve lifting the person, take special care of your back. Ask a physical therapist for advice, and get some lifting aids.
If you start feeling depressed, anxious or stressed, see your doctor as soon as possible. This is easier to tackle at an early stage. Enjoy doing things with the person you are caring for, and if possible, have fun together. Do not just get into the rut of doing everyday chores. Allow him or her to do as much as possible to help you or help him/herself.
Learn to relax by releasing the pressure, specific relaxation techniques and also by light exercise.
Sometimes, caregiving can seem like a thankless task. Maybe you do not feel appreciated, and perhaps others do not realize how much you do. Give yourself an occasional gift or treat for managing the situation, and finding new strengths and skills that you have gained.
