Managing stress is something that everyone needs to do.
Competing time demands, family, work, the endless “to do list”, finances etc.,
etc. contribute to the stress load of most adults. Add the challenge of caring for
another individual and the stress is greatly exasperated.
What can you do to alleviate some of the stress? Here are a
few things to think about:
- Recognize the signs in yourself. Are you over-tired? Irritable? Depressed? (List some of the signs that you find in yourself )
- Discuss with your family members how the stress is affecting you. Are you anxious? Exhausted? Overwhelmed? Involve your family physician if necessary to seek a solution.
- Seek assistance whenever possible. Don’t try to do it alone. (Who can you call? Make a list of both professional agencies and friends you can access for help or respite)
- Find activities that you and your care recipient can do together for fun. Do you like to watch old movies? Listen to music? (List some ideas here)
- Learn to let go. (What are three things that you can give up or change? For instance, do you need to change your Expectations?)
Sometimes, being able to recognize the signs of stress is
the first step in the healing process.
We must be willing to discuss with others how overwhelmed we may feel
and to seek assistance when needed. Be sure to schedule a family meeting or
make a point to bring it up at the next doctor’s appointment. Your health needn’t be a victim of caregiver
stress! A few simple changes can help alleviate some of the burden we carry. But we must take the first step.
