Those of us who step to the plate as caregivers are a special breed. It is not everyone who can manage the situations that occur with caregiving. However, a person who takes on caregiving responsibility is frequently an individual who does this wholeheartedly. This means that they may give until they can't give anymore which leads to caregiver burnout and compassion fatigue.

While the caregiver is taking care of their loved one, their own needs are not being met. This lack of focus on self-care is not only exhausting; it can be deadly.

What does self-care mean?

1. Take physical breaks from the caregiving responsibility. We call this respite time. Leave the house for a walk. Go out to coffee with a friend. Go to a movie. Get a massage.
2. Take emotion breaks from caregiving responsibility. Talk to a friend. Talk to a therapist. Get angry and acknowledge that life is not fair. Ask for help, but if it is not available from the person you asked don’t stop.
3. Acknowledge the stress of caregiving. The first step is to step out of your denial mode. Denial only heightens the stress of caregiving, by minimizing the situation and circumstances. Denial and fears lead to procrastination which limits your ability to provide self-care.

Self-care can be as simple as a hot cup of tea the way you like it. Is that with honey? Is that herbal tea? Maybe it is a hot shower or long bubble bath. Perhaps it is as simple as sitting on the deck and watching the sunset. Search your inner spirit and find that unique thing that feeds your soul. It is not an extravagance; it is essential!

What is your favorite thing to do for self-care? Let me know in the comments below.