As CareGivers, we may feel that our tasks are endless and we continually focus on the needs of those we are caring for rather than tending to our own needs. April 16th is National Stress Awareness Day. In honor of this day, CAREjourney.com is addressing CareGiver stress and offering suggestions. Consider some of the following ideas to help reduce stress as you cope with the ongoing demands of caregiving.
Knowledge is power. Educate yourself about the symptoms and illness of the person you are caring for. Information will help you become more comfortable and confident with the challenges you are addressing.
Find a support. Join a support group, talk with a religious leader or counselor, or even a friend. Talk about your feelings with someone you trust.
Plan ahead. Keep a calendar and plan out as much as possible, but remember the need to stay flexible as things may arise out of your control. However, planning will help you delegate tasks and keep you focused, thus staying in control.
Have some fun and treat yourself. As CareGivers, you forget to put your needs ahead of others. You need to set aside time to do the things you enjoy like taking a walk, going to a movie, or even getting a massage.
Remember your health. It’s important to eat right, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly. Others depend on you, so you need to take care of yourself. Eating, sleeping, and exercising are all important essentials to the recipe of good health.
Relaxation is a must. Take alone time for praying, deep breathing, tai chi, or yoga. Mastering stress relief activities such as these will help you throughout your day.
Maintain a positive attitude. During challenging times, it is important for you to surround yourself with individuals who have a positive outlook. In addition, finding humor in your day helps with tension. Laughter and positive attitudes go a long way.
Find care assistance. You may need to hire a caregiver or call a friend to get a break. As a CareGiver, you need to remember Super Woman (or Super Man) was a fictional cartoon character and real people can not do everything. Delegating and asking for help is essential in order to relieve stress.
Have other stress reliever ideas for CareGivers? Post them to our Facebook Fan Page. Your comments or postings may help another CareGiver cope.
Your CAREjourney Guides,
Staci Witten & Liz Applegate
Thursday the 15th, 2010 at 9 a.m.
