7 Tips to Prevent Caregiver Burnout
1. Get information – Learn as much as you can about your loved one’s health issues & needs, and how these are likely to change after some time. This will help you arrange and plan for these eventualities.
2. Involve family and friends – Friends and family will always be there for you. They ideally should ask you if there’s anything they can do to help. Spending time with them will also take your mind off of what is stressing you.
3. Eat Healthy – Your well being and sustenance is pretty much as critical as your loved one’s, so always take opportunities to eat well.
4. Exercise – Exercise is a great way to decrease stress. Anything from going for a walk or taking yoga classes will help you release all of your stress.
5. Get Enough Sleep – A lot of caregivers who’s own health is at risk is due to lack of sleep. You need to charge your batteries. Take a deep breath and it will help you sleep better at bedtime.
6. Attend or join a support group – Caregivers understand the situation of another caregiver better than anyone else. It’s really comforting to open up and relate to others who are experiencing the same type of stress as other caregivers.
7. Pamper yourself – Go out and relax. Watch movies, buy some flowers or take a long bath with scented candles. Anything that will make you feel very special.