Caregiving for Loved Ones

Taking care of someone else is not always easy. Giving care has various challenges, even though it's one of the most rewarding and compassionate acts a friend or family member can do. Taking care of a loved one is a major duty that can occasionally be draining. It's a common emotion to feel like you can never take time for yourself or that you always have to be on duty but that it's not true. Taking time for yourself is not selfish, it's essential to make self-care a priority. Your mental health will start to suffer if you're constantly concentrating on other people and ignoring your own needs. You will have more energy to share with people around you if you take care of yourself. Thankfully, there are several practical methods available for stress management. 

Here are some tricks to maintaining your mental health when caring for another individual.


Practice gratitude

This statement may be over-said but practicing gratitude can rewire the brain into being more positive. Even when times are tough there is ALWAYS something to be grateful for. The more you focus on the good, the better the good gets. Also being positive is contagious so if you are acting super positive around a loved one they will start to act more positive.

Journal 

Being a caregiver can be draining so sometimes you have to get some things off your chest. Write whatever is on your mind and it will help you let go of some of the negative emotions you are feeling. Journaling can be therapeutic and can help you process the event you are going through. 

Avoid perfection

Nobody is flawless. Furthermore, when we aim for such an impossible standard, we place needless strain on ourselves, which leads to tension and feelings of guilt when we fall short of our goals. If you are trying your best that is all that matters, if you obsess over being perfect you are going to drive yourself crazy.

Exercise 

Physical activity releases endorphins that boost happiness. You may not  have an hour for a gym session, and that's perfectly fine. Taking a walk outdoors or following a workout video on YouTube can be equally advantageous. Just try to sweat and move your body, whatever workouts work well with your body. 

Meditate

Meditation can mean different things to different people. For example, it can be going for a stroll, taking a car ride, listening to music, or doing anything that relaxes you. Meditation can be tough, but there are many guided meditation videos on YouTube. Begin with a 5-minute video, then attempt a 10-minute one. I promise you'll feel much better afterwards. 

Socialize

Being around other people can make you feel better and be a healthy distraction. Call someone you feel comfortable with, having conversations with others can uplift your spirits and relieve anxiety. 

Hot showers

After a long day of taking care of someone, a hot shower can be so relaxing. It will calm your nervous system and make going to sleep easier. Imagine that while you take a shower, all the negative energy from the day is being released and allowed to depart. Hot showers are an easy way to show yourself love

Remember, when you're dedicating your energy to others, it's crucial to prioritize your well-being. You are already giving so much love to others by caregiving. Why would you not want to give back love to yourself?

-Written by Jillian Falvo, Undergraduate Intern

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