Tips on Positive Coping Techniques for Caregiver Stress

The demands of caregiving can be a lot to bear. If caregivers don’t take the time to care for themselves, too, the consequences could be damaging for everyone involved. It’s important to know how to recognize caregiver stress and learn positive coping techniques for relieving it.

Signs of caregiver stress include feeling overwhelmed and constantly worried, physical and emotional exhaustion, sleeping too much or too little, feeling irritable, hopeless or helpless, frequent headaches or body pain and withdrawing from friends and family.

Fortunately, there are many scientifically proven ways to keep your caregiver responsibilities from overwhelming you. By taking care of yourself, keeping a positive attitude and seeking support, you can manage your responsibilities and alleviate the anxiety they might cause.

Considering implementing these positive coping techniques:

• Be realistic – Know your limits when it comes to the amount and type of care you can provide. Set realist caregiving goals to accomplish, and don’t be afraid to accept help.
• Educate yourself – The more you know about your loved one’s needs, the better care you can provide. Understanding your loved one’s condition can keep you from worrying unnecessarily.
• Acknowledge their condition – Be realistic about your loved one’s health conditions. Recognize that you cannot cure your loved one. Your job is to give them the highest quality of life possible.
• Accept your feelings – It’s okay to have negative feelings of frustration, bitterness or guilt. These emotions are normal, and they don’t make you a bad person.
• Stay connected – Find support from a trusted friend or family member. It’s important for you to socialize with people other than your loved one.
• Find positive outlets – Learn healthy ways to cope with the daily demands of caregiving. Keep a good sense of humor and a positive attitude.
• Stay healthy – Do your best to take good care of yourself. Eat a balanced diet, find time to exercise and develop a healthy sleep pattern.
• Make time for you – Allow yourself time to do the things you love. Don’t lose your identity beneath your caregiving role.
• Utilize respite care – Find an assisted living community or family member who can provide respite care for your loved one every once in awhile so you can have time to run errands or take a break.
• Join a support group – Many senior organizations offer support groups for caregivers to meet with one another, share ideas and gain support from people who understand what they’re going through.

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