Are you a caregiver?  Just because you care for someone else doesn't mean you should neglect yourself.

Here are 6 tips to consider incorporating into your life!

1. Recognize signs of stress. Signs of stress can be the following: irritability; loss of sleep; becomingly more prone to getting colds or flu's; or feelings of guilt or despair. These signs can indicate the stress in your life have become prominent and your current situation needs to be re-assessed. 
2. Acknowledge the Pressure: Taking care of someone is not easy. You need to be aware of when things have become too difficult and admit (and be "ok" with) when things are not easy. Don't feel guilty when you feel this way- it's only natural considering the situation and admitting to yourself when you have feelings of dismay is a natural coping mechanism and nothing to be worried about or ashamed of. Feelings are just that: feelings. They are neither right or wrong. So don't feel bad or guilty when you feel a certain way.
   
3. Take Much Needed Breaks: Everyone needs a little time to themselves... even people who act as caregivers. If you do not take much needed time for yourself then you will succumb more easily to illness and stress and will be little good to the person you are caring for. Give yourself time away from the situation by taking a walk, reading a book, or doing something you enjoy doing. Just do whatever you can to give yourself some much needed time away so that when you are back in the role of being a caregiver you are more refreshed and able-minded.
4. Don't Be Afraid To Ask for Help: Oftentimes there are people who are aware of your situation who want to help but they aren't sure how to offer you the help for fear of offending you. Offer them simple tasks they can do that will be of help to you. Don't be afraid to ASK for help if you need it! If your too tired to cook dinner, ask a friend or family member if they can do it for you.
5. Try Respite Care: Being a caregiver is NOT easy. It's not your job to take on the responsibility alone, or should it be. You may feel it's your job or role, but it's not and never be afraid to ask for respite help. Infact, actively seek to have some respite help. Many insurance companies will pay for home health care workers to come in and help with no out of pocket cost to the patient (or you!). Perhaps there are other friends or family members who can take on a certain block of time. If having someone else help out makes you anxious then leave a detailed list for that person with the expectations of their help and any pertinen information they will need to know.
6. Take Pride: Whether being a caregiver is a role you volunteered for or if it was kinda dumped into your lap-- you took on the role and should be proud of what you are doing and the accomplishments you are making in the role of helping out with someone who needs you. Take your focus away from the frustrations and remember that your help is precious to that person. Enjoy the time you spend with them. while you have it because life really is short. Remember the "big picture": this person needs you and you may or may not be the only person they can depend on. Do unto them as you would have done unto you.

Caregivers come in many different forms. There is no wrong way to care as long as we remember to take care and give care we will embark on a new profound journey that can create new and rewarding journies and experiences. Whatever role you play as a caregiver, just remember that you need to remember #1 and that is TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF so that you can effectively offer and care for others.

I hope you have found this guide to be helpful. If so, please vote YES below. You can read my other guides as there are many others to choose from on a variety of topics. Thank you for your time and have a blessed day!