In a patient-caregiver relationship, priority concern is obviously aimed towards caring for the patient.
Whether elderly, handicapped, or illness-afflicted, the goal of everyone involved is to provide optimum care and wellness to the person in need.
However, often times the other major players in the whole situation are neglected - the caregivers themselves.
Whether you are a hired professional, a family member or a friend caring for someone, it's important not to forget to take care of yourself as well.
When the necessities and well-being of someone else comes first, it's very easy to neglect yourself up until you are burned out or overwhelmed.
Caregivers must know that it's normal to experience stress and important to not feel guilty when you feel worn out or in need of a break.
Both the emotional and physical demands of being a caregiver can drain the energy and willpower out of even the most patient and resilient of individuals.
When you feel like you can no longer handle the situation or are on the verge of giving up, it's important to step back and apply the tips below on how to manage caregiver stress.
• Accept Help - At first, this may feel like the acceptance of defeat, or it may be a welcome relief, depending on the person or situation, but either way a helping hand can never hurt.
Assign tasks to the person or put together a list of things to do that the helper may choose from.
• Find Connections - Ask around or do some research to find local hospitals and organizations that are willing to give caregiving classes and useful training.
It's also a great idea to join support groups.
You'd be surprise to find people who are going through the same thing you are.
This is a great way to find encouragement, advice and even new friends.
• Seek Family and Friends - Make an effort to stay connected with family and friends.
Make it a point to bond with others and have time for fun and relaxation, even if it's just a simple dinner or walk with a friend.
The point is to get you out of the house and take a break.
Maintaining healthy relationships and having a support system have been found to alleviate or manage stress in any situation.
• Stay Healthy - It's important to not neglect your own physical needs.
Eat right, keep yourself hydrated, and get enough sleep.
Find time for some physical activity that doesn't involve running back and forth for errands or assisting your patient or loved one.
It's also important to set appointments with your doctor for vaccines or check-ups, regardless of whether you do or do not have symptoms of any condition or illness.
Despite all the stress and demands that come with being a caregiver, at the end of the day, you are well aware that taking care of someone who needs you can be very rewarding and may very well be the core value for many.