Today’s guest blog is brought to you by Harry Cline of New Caregiver, an organization that offers resources and support for people who suddenly find themselves in the position of caregiver for a loved one. Harry is currently writing The A-Z Home Care Book, a guide for caregivers. Thank you, Harry, for sharing your knowledge with my readers!
Caregivers Can Prevent Stress With These Self-Care Guidelines
Caregiver stress can happen to anyone, even those who love their job and find it rewarding. Taking care of another individual and coping with the emotional and physical toll it takes on a daily basis can be extremely draining, which is why it’s so important to make time for yourself. Focusing on your mental health and physical wellbeing will allow you to be a more effective caregiver, benefitting your client or loved one as well as yourself. You’ll find resources and support at Resiliency Mental Health that will help you create a plan for your wellness, and the following tips will take you through the process of self-care.
Get some assistance
No one can do everything themselves. Many caregivers work long hours with lots of physical demands, and that leaves little time or energy for dealing with the upkeep of their homes. Get some help with tasks like cleaning, cooking, and lawn care by hiring them out to a maid, healthy meal kit delivery options, and a lawn service that will keep everything green and healthy. Do some research beforehand by reading customer reviews; for instance, you can search lawn fertilizer companies near me to find top-rated services in your area. Don’t forget to look for online deals or credits from different companies in order to fit them into your budget.
Get social
Because caregiving can be such a time-consuming job, it may be difficult to keep in touch with family and friends. It’s common for caregivers to experience feelings of isolation, so it’s important to get social as often as possible with your loved ones, even if it’s only over the phone. Look for a video chat service that will keep you connected, or utilize one of the options offered by social media. Stay in touch with your friends and make it a point to go out when you can.
Reduce your stress levels
Even with the ability to socialize, you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed at times. There are several ways you can combat and minimize stress, from eating the right diet to getting daily exercise, but if you’re still having a hard time coping, consider booking an appointment with a counselor or therapist who can help you talk through your feelings. Many caregivers experience depression and/or anxiety due to the nature of the job, so it can be helpful to talk to a professional and find a way to work around those issues.
Do something fun
A great way to deal with stress and bond with your patient at the same time is by finding a hobby you both enjoy. Gardening, playing word games or putting together puzzles, making art, and collecting are all fun ways to pass the time with your client or loved one, and they can reduce negative feelings and help you feel more in control of your day. Not only that, the right hobby can be physically and mentally stimulating for your patient, making them happy even as it makes your job a little easier.
Find the right mattress
With everything you do in a day to help your patient stay safe and healthy, it’s understandable that it all takes a toll on your body, which can make it difficult to get good rest. Setting up your bedroom for maximum comfort is essential, and that includes having a good mattress that supports your back, neck, and hips. You can also ensure that your bedding is soft and breathable, especially if you’re a hot sleeper; consider your specific nighttime needs when shopping for the right mattress.
Caregiving can be a hugely rewarding task, but it can also leave you feeling drained if you don’t make yourself a priority sometimes. Doing what you can to boost your mental health and taking care of your body will help you excel at your job while ensuring that it doesn’t take a toll on you.
If you live in South Dakota and you or your loved one have questions about therapy services, contact Sioux Falls Psychological Services to find out more.