10 Ways to Deal with Caregiver Burnout

Caregiving is a tough job.   Depending on the need of the individual, you have little time to yourself.  Your primary goal and focus is on the care of your loved one.   During this time it is very easy to suffer from burnout.   You are giving so much of yourself to others that you have little time for yourself.

Part of being a good caregiver, is also taking care of yourself.  You need time to refresh your own batteries, so that you can offer your best to your loved one.

Ten ways to care for yourself are:

  1. Go to the movies—this gives you time to just relax and allow your mind and body to rest as you escape through the characters in the story.         movie theatre
  2. Get a Mani/Pedi—take time to spoil yourself and get a mani/pedi.  This is an activity that doesn’t take a lot of time but allows you to relax and pamper yourself.
  3. Go out with friends—we all need time with other people.   Sometimes you just need someone that you can have a conversation with {regardless of the subject}.
  4. Go for a walk—this activity cost nothing and exercise is good for your heart and mindset.  You can use this time to enjoy the silence, listen to music or pray.  This is a great way to work off additional energy, frustrations and/or anger.   Exercise is also a great mood booster if you discover that you are becoming depressed.
  5. Read a book—pick up your latest author’s newest novel and delve into the story.   This is a great way to recharge your batteries when it’s difficult to leave the patient.  You can go into another room or outside to enjoy your book.   reading
  6. Take time to play—whether you have a pet or enjoy a good round of golf, take time to endeavor yourself in your favorite activity.  You will be surprised at what thirty minutes of play a day will do for your mindset.
  7. Laugh—laughter is a great way to reduce stress.  Find something that makes you laugh, whether it’s your favorite sitcom, a YouTube video, or the antics of your grandchildren.
  8. Enjoy your favorite craft—whether you enjoy knitting, embroidery, crafts, or another outlet working on your favorite craft is a great way to recharge your batteries.  Decide what craft you enjoy most, choose a project and dedicate thirty minutes each day to this endeavor.
  9. Go for a massage—this is a great way to relax and loosen your tight muscles.                  massage
  10. Garden—moving your fingers through the earth and working with the beauty of nature and flowers is a refreshing activity that many enjoy.  You have the opportunity to take in the beauty around you and allow your mind to wonder.

These are just ten suggestions of things you can do to care for yourself and refresh your batteries.  Remember, when we care for ourselves we are in much better shape to care for our loved one.

How do you refresh your batteries?

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