What would you tell a friend that has expressed to you that they are struggling with feeling overwhelmed?
Think good thoughts.
You’re doing amazing.
Don’t be so hard on yourself.
This too shall pass.
As a caregiver, tell yourself the same uplifting messages.
It is important to find little breaks to remind yourself of all the great things you accomplish daily. You should schedule time for yourself to recharge so that you can continue to provide the best possible care for your loved one.
- Set timers for activities to help give your loved one an expectation and help you better manage your time.
- Involve your loved one in household chores like folding laundry, setting the table or wiping down counters.
- At-home task idea: ask your loved one to clear the pantry, then ask them to wipe down the shelves, then restock them.
Tip: when your loved one is busy with a task, don’t interrupt them and they are less likely to interrupt you.
- Each day, schedule 3 minutes for yourself.
- Minute 1: Ask yourself- What’s good about me? What do I like about myself? What am I doing right?
- Minutes 2-3
- If there is nothing, find something.
- Make a list of your successes.
- A journal is a great way to process your thoughts/needs.
- If you are an extrovert, phone a friend.
- Take a walk to the mailbox.
- Spend time doing something to make you happy: dance, sing, light candles, paint your nails.