Whether you have a loved one living with a disability or an elderly parent that you’ve decided to be responsible for, living as a carer is a noble and worthwhile choice to make. However, there’s no denying it can also be difficult and demanding. Without giving yourself the care you need, burnout is not only a possibility, it is an inevitability. So, what do you do to take care of yourself while taking care of another?
Recognize The Signs Of Things Getting Too Much
When you put your own needs last, the stress can build up on you steadily over time. Eventually, you can buckle under the weight. Keep an eye out for the signs of burnout, such as persistent fatigue, irritability, problems with sleep, or feeling like you’re overwhelmed. The first step to taking better care of yourself is to be able to notice when you’re not doing a good job of it. These signs are not weaknesses; recognizing them is a step towards managing that balance better.
Schedule Time For Your Own Health
When you’re so plugged in to ensuring the needs of another, it’s easy to let yours slide. This can even include neglecting the basics, such as getting healthy meals, exercising, or going to your medical appointments. Understand that these health basics are non-negotiable, and make time to prepare for them. For instance, if you’re having trouble cooking yourself healthy meals in the evening, consider doing meal prep in the mornings or the night before, so that it’s a lot easier to just heat up your meal when you need to. You can also find plenty of opportunities for quick bodyweight workout routines whenever you have a few minutes free.
Get A Little Help
Reading the above, you might ask yourself, “but when do I have the time?” If you really do not have the space in your schedule to invest in self-care, then the answer isn’t to skip it; it’s to look at your schedule. You may need to set more boundaries and open up more time for yourself. For instance, you can use services like Comforting Home Care by Phoebe, so that you’re able to take a little time off for yourself while resting assured that your loved one is still getting the care that you need. Avoid feeling guilty about stepping away. Taking time for yourself can help you come back with more motivation and energy, making you more effective in the long run.
Maintain Your Connections
Being a carer can be an isolating experience, especially when spending most of your time at home. Make sure that you stay connected with others by scheduling calls with your friends, carving out time to meet loved ones, and even finding caregiver support groups. Better connecting with those who understand your particular struggles not only offers empathy and understanding, but you can pick up plenty of practical tips while you’re there.
Being a caregiver is an important responsibility to take on, but it should not come at the cost of your own well-being or fulfillment. Hopefully, the tips above help you find space in your life for yourself as well.