Caring for a dependent adult is no easy assignment, and the role takes a major toll on a person's mind, body and general well-being. Practising self-care techniques is vital to staying healthy throughout the process of caring for loved ones.
Caregiving is a difficult and involved undertaking that can prove equally rewarding and challenging. The process can wreak havoc on a person's health and emotional state, producing effects such as weight gain or weight loss, fatigue, depression, insomnia and chronic stress. Caregiving often requires physical demands that are taxing to the body and may result in injury to the caregiver or care recipient. Many caregivers report mental stressors and emotions such as guilt, anger and anxiety.
Maintaining proper self-care is necessary to adequately care for another, and its importance is uniformly recognized among researchers and social work professionals. Techniques should be catered to the individual's personal preferences. Activities for stress relief will likely vary based on whether a caregiver is introverted or extroverted by nature, what hobbies he or she enjoys and the overall availability of community resources and support programs. In general, the following pursuits are widely recommended:
Caregivers should not hesitate to seek help when overly stressed, whether this assistance is in the form of respite programs or general help from family and friends. Regular counselling sessions are also useful for discussing emotional frustrations and challenges in a safe and supportive atmosphere.
Not only are these techniques for reducing stress vital for caregivers, they're also crucial for maintaining the well-being of the person receiving care. For instance, proper nutrition and exercise assist in the physical demands of caregiving, which in turn helps to prevent falls. Likewise, talking to social supports about common difficulties and emotions helps prevent potentially dangerous outbursts or depression, which can unintentionally lead to improper care or neglect. Taking the time to care for yourself is not selfish; it is the only way to ensure that your caregiving ability is adequate for the one you love.
