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Self Care for Caregivers

 

Taking care of others is an important and selfless role, but often, caregivers can forget to prioritize themselves and their own wellbeing. Self-care is an essential for caregivers so they can make sure they are taking care of themselves physically, emotionally and mentally. In this post, we will be looking into the importance of self-care for caregivers and explore some practical strategies to help caregivers nurture themselves while caring for others.


Do You Prioritize Time for Yourself?

  • Yes

  • No

  • I am working on it!


Caregivers consist of many different roles, including parents, support workers, nurses, and friends. Often, caregivers can skip their own needs in their efforts to provide care to others. It is important for us to all remember that self-care is not selfish; it is a vital component of being a successful caregiver.


"Self-care means giving the world the best of you, instead of what's left of you." - Katie Reed

Self-care for a caregiver goes beyond occasional treats or a spa night; it’s about recognizing your own needs to make sure you’re giving the best care to others. Caregivers serve selflessly, and face intense pressures, stress and emotional turmoil in their role. By prioritizing self-care, caregivers give themselves a change to recharge their mental battery, maintain their health and prevent burnout.


Self-care comes in many different forms. Here are some helpful ways you can prioritize your wellbeing:


Physical Self-Care

It is important that caregivers focus on their physical health. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, “Mental and physical health is fundamentally linked. There are multiple associations between mental health and chronic physical conditions that significantly impact people’s quality of life, demands on health care and other publicly funded services, and generate consequences to society.” (CMHA, 2024). Good physical self care includes maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated and having regular physical activity throughout the day. According to the Government of Canada, Adults between ages 18-64 should strive to achieve at least 2.5 active hours per week to achieve health benefits.


Emotional Self-Care

Caregivers must also prioritize their emotional wellbeing as part of their self-care journey. Emotional self-care includes building a supportive network. In small communities like Gravelbourg, this support network can be built by reaching out to businesses and organizations like the Rapid Access Counselling. According to the Town of Gravelbourg, “Moose Jaw Family Services hosts FREE in-person counseling clinics at the Town Office (209 Main St. 2nd Floor) every Tuesday from 9 am – 12 pm and 1 pm – 5 pm. (Additional days TBD.) The clinic is open to anyone ages 7 years and older needing mental health support on a drop in or appointment basis. Quick and barrier free. No wait list” (Town of Gravelbourg, 2024.) In addition to seeking a support network through counselling options, caregivers can take time to express their feelings, whether it be through journaling or talking to a trusted friend.


Journal Prompts for a Caregiver

If you are interested in starting your journaling journal, here are some quick prompts you can use to get you started! (Daily Caring) Remember, your journal is your own private outlet – there is no judgement in the feelings you put in your journal.

1.      “List 3 good things about today.

2.      What is one thing you can improve on (Time management, communication, etc.) and how can you do this?

3.      What is one adjustment you would like to make to your morning routine?

4.      What is one adjustment you would like to make to your night routine?

5.      Make a list of 20 things that make you happy.

6.      What is one new skill you would like to learn and how can you learn it?

7.      What is one long-term goal you wish to work towards?

8.      Was today a difficult day? If so, what made it difficult and what can you do to prevent from having days like this in the future?

9.      What is one problem you had today, and what was your solution to this problem? Was it the best way you could have handled it?

10.  Are you taking care of yourself? Do you allow yourself time to relax and breathe? If the answer is no, what can you do to give yourself this time?” (Daily Caring, 2024)


Social Self Care

Social self-care is all about taking care of our connections and relationships with other people. It is important for caregivers to take time outside of their homes and direct care relationships to encourage and nurture their social relationships. You can take care of your relationships by meeting up with your friends to talk, phoning a friend you haven’t talked to in a while, or planning a coffee date with a friend or relative.

Self-care shouldn’t feel like a chore. Instead, at Bon Ami we encourage you to view your self-care as a journey. It is important for your physical health, mental health and your caregiving ability. Whether your self-care is going to a Karate class or starting a new journal, investing in your self is an important step towards your total wellbeing. Keep nurturing your emotional wellbeing, because you deserve care and compassion too.


Citation:

CMHA. 2024. Connection Between Mental and Physical Health. Retrieved from https://ontario.cmha.ca/documents/connection-between-mental-and-physical-health/

Government of Canada. 2018. Physical Activity Tips for Adults (18-64 years). Retrieved from https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/physical-activity-tips-adults-18-64-years.html

 Town of Gravelbourg. 2024. Health Care Services. Retrieved from: https://www.gravelbourg.ca/residents/community_healthcare_services.html

Daily Caring. 25 Quick Journal Prompts That Reduce Caregiver Stress and Improve Health. Retrieved from: https://dailycaring.com/25-quick-journal-prompts-that-reduce-caregiver-stress-and-improve-health/

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