7 Tips To Reduce Caregiver Stress

I have been involved in taking care of patients who were terminally ill, and the experience was mentally and physically tasking. You may have to wake up in the middle of the night to take care of your patients till the early morning.  You counsel, you console, you assure, you become their only source of dependence, the only shoulder to cry on.  But, hang on a minute; you’re only human and not a robot. If care isn't taken, you may become ill yourself.  So how do you as the caregiver, ensure you don’t end up being on the receiving end of care?  

Find below some useful tips to help you reduce caregiver stress:

1. First, it’s crucial to get yourself together and be realistic about what’s possible and what’s not.  Don’t panic, though that comes in often. Be calm and methodical. Grab something healthy to eat once you get the chance, but keep most things at easy reach. Be positive even if you know the outcome may not be. Your patients need you to be strong, and display it.

2. Get as much information as you can on the ailment, and be familiar with resources available or support groups in your community. A good way to learn more is to contact your doctor or local health center, the internet, or related NGOs. 

3. Get help from family and friends. Remember, you wouldn’t get what you want (or need) if you don’t ask.  Don’t be a superwoman or man, and learn to delegate tasks.  If you’re lucky to have domestic assistance then pass your chores along.  Ensure your growing children take some responsibility in the house.  Pass specific task to your spouse, and learn to work at your own convenient pace.

4. Accept changes as they occur. Illness and even death are a natural part of life. Diseases often get progressively worse. Prepare yourself emotionally by accepting this reality. In your spare time, which is probably rare, do a form of exercise that will relax your mind.

5. Be realistic about what you can do and don’t feel guilty if you can’t do everything on your own. No one can. 

6. Note that for things to improve you must realise you deserve good health too. Try to break away from the burden that turns you into looking after other people only.  Doing that will set you free leaving you with more mental and physical energy left for yourself.

7. Don’t bottle up your worries.  If you have anything to worry about, talk about it and seek proper medical attention.

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