Being a caregiver, whether full-time or part-time, can be an incredibly stressful task. It can feel like every day is a completely new challenge, and both the physical and emotional burden can become taxing. What makes it even worse, is the feeling that you can’t complain, and instead bottle the stress you are suffering.
Take a deep breath. We understand you. And we’ve put together our top list for reducing caregiver stress:
- Take good care of yourself. Caregivers are always putting someone else’s needs before theirs, but if you’re not in good health, you won’t be able to provide the care you do. Make sure you take time to look after yourself.
- Get some ‘me’ time. Whatever it is that lets you chill out – reading a book, going for a walk, listening to music, or enjoying a glass of pinot, make sure that you make time for it and stick to your schedule. Make dates with yourself, and don’t cancel them.
- Talk to someone. The worst thing you can do is bottle up everything you’re going through. Try communicating with someone who will listen – it could be someone in the family, another caregiver, or an empathetic friend.
- Practice mindfulness. It takes some practice to master mindfulness, but once you do, it will be a friend for life. Try Headspace for guided meditation.
- Go outside. Getting some fresh air and moving your body is one of the best things you can do to stay in both physical and mental health. Even just 30 minutes of walking each day is enough to reduce stress, in addition to an infinite list of health benefits.