DrDeClutterBlog.com

We all know and hear that we’re supposed to take care of ourselves, of course, but if you’re a caregiver for others — parents, grandparents, ill spouse, child or other — and aren’t getting enough breaks, you will burnout.

If you feel run down, ill, tired, depressed, angry, burned-out or any other negative and depleting feelings or health concern, you are less help to your loved one, and none to yourself.

Take care of yourself now FIRST so that you can do a better job for a longer time.

1. Create balance between caring for others and caring for yourself.

2. Protecting your health (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual) is absolutely critical.

3. Get regular check-ups; for basic vitamin deficiencies (take a multi-vitamin for sure) and for possible illnesses, colds, etc.

4. Get exercise. Get out and walk. Get outdoors and enjoy the weather and seasons. Exercise with friends. Movement keeps you flexible, strong and well plus floods your body with endorphins for more good feelings and health.

5. Eat well. Get your basics plus and eat well daily.

6. Stay involved in hobbies.

7. Stay involved with your friends and social time. You need your friends now more than ever. Don’t do this alone.

8. Watch for signs of depression. See your physician if it gets out of your control.

9. Ditch the guilt. Your loved one is on “their journey.” You can’t change how they got there and where they’re going. You can do as much as you can do. Then, you have to let others help and take breaks.

10. Ask for help. Whether it’s from a professional service, family or friend, ask for help sooner than later.

11. Laugh. Laugh a lot! Laugh with friends, with your pet, at movies or other entertainment. Laughter is good medicine – literally!

Caregiving can be a very hard job. Make sure you take care of yourself FIRST, then take care of others. If you are “empty”, you have little to give. Say FULL!