Provided by Senior Life Solutions at Gothenburg Health

Caregivers do a lot for others. Because there is so much on their plate, many caregivers don’t spend time taking care of themselves. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) says that caregivers are less likely to get preventative health services and to practice regular self-care. As a result, they tend to have a higher risk of physical and mental health issues, sleep problems and chronic conditions such as high blood pressure. Some warning signs may include feeling exhausted or overwhelmed, being easily angered, feeling disconnected, having trouble sleeping, feeling sad, frequent headaches, not taking time to exercise or prepare healthy food, skipping showers or personal care task, and misusing alcohol or drugs. 

Caregivers often face significant stress and emotional strain which can impact their health. Here are some tips to help caregivers improve their mental well- being:

Self-Care: Prioritize self-care by setting aside time for activities that you enjoy or help you relax, such as reading, hobbies, or exercise.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to ensure that you have personal time and space. Learn to say no when necessary to avoid burnout. 

Stay Organized: Use calendars, to-do lists, and apps to keep track of appointments, medications, and tasks. This can reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Seek Support: Don't hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or professional respite services. Join support groups where you can share experiences and gain advice from others in similar situations. 

Seek Professional Help: If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, seek help from a mental health professional. Therapy or counseling can provide valuable coping strategies. 

The NIA points out that taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do as a caregiver. They recommend asking for small things first, send a text or email if that is more comfortable than a face-to-face request, be prepared with a list, practice saying, “Thanks for asking. Here’s what you can do,” being honest about what you do and don’t need and being prepared for some people to say “no” without taking it personally.

By incorporating these tips, caregivers can better manage their responsibilities and maintain their mental health, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling caregiving experience.

The Senior Life Solutions team at Gothenburg Health understands the unique challenges caregivers face. Their outpatient program is designed to provide support and resources needed to maintain mental health and well-being. Reach out to connect with others, gain valuable coping skills, and receive personalized care from their dedicated team of professionals. Let them help you take care of yourself so you can continue to care for those you love. For more information, call 308-537-1051.