Are you constantly tired, even after sleeping or taking a short cat nap? Or do you feel sluggish, with much less energy compared to before? Or perhaps you used to enjoy caring for your loved ones, but now the thought of it feels burdensome and heavy?
If your answer is “yes” to any of those questions, you may be experiencing a caregiver burnout. You might be wondering now: “What is caregiver burnout? Is it something serious?”
Caregiver burnout occurs when you are physically, emotionally and mentally drained from caring for your loved one. It does not mean that you no longer care about your loved ones. Rather, it is your body telling you that you need to start taking time to care for yourself.
With the uncertainty and pressures of COVID-19, you may feel even more stressed. Hence, it is important that you learn to look out for your mental health too.
Read on for 4 self-care tips to soothe your tired soul and body!
Self-Care Tip 1: Let colours and music relax you
Studies have shown that art can reduce feelings of anxiety and improve the mental wellbeing of individuals. You can release your stress through painting, sketching or even music! We have also included some resources below to get you started.
If you are more of a crafts person, there are many crafting videos online to guide you!
In fact, you can ask your loved ones to join you as you explore your creative side. Not only does art help you to relax, it can bring the both of you closer together too.
Self-Care Tip 2: Work out your stress
Scientists have discovered that just five minutes of aerobic exercise can help to reduce stress and anxiety. In fact, regular participation in sports can improve sleep and prevent depression.
If you are feeling tense, why not try working out at home? There are many fitness videos online to guide you on how to get started, and we have included some at the bottom of this article.
By the way, your loved ones can join you in your workout too! There are also “Chair Zumba” videos in different languages, so your loved ones can understand and keep fit alongside with you. Check it out below!
Self-Care Tip 3: Clear your mind
Do your thoughts run through your head all the time? Or find it hard to clear your mind of worries? Why not practice simple mindfulness or give meditation a try?
Mindfulness means being fully present in the moment. This includes freeing your brain from distractions and concentrating on what is currently happening. You can do this anywhere, and we have included some resources to help you with it.
Not a big fan of these relaxation techniques? Sometimes, all you need is a deep breath to reduce your stress. Take three deep breaths every time you feel overwhelmed, and you will find yourself calming down.
Self-Care Tip 4: Take a well-deserved break
Sometimes, all you need is just a breather from caregiving. Caregiving is typically a 24/7 task, and taking an occasional break for yourself is important too!
Take the day off to do something for yourself. Be it shopping, or simply taking a walk in the park, these small actions can do wonders for your mental health.
If you are caring for a senior, our Senior Day Care can keep your senior happily engaged during the day, while you take some time for yourself.
You can also approach Go Respite to help you out if you need someone to take care of your loved ones for a short period of time.
We also have Home Care services to help you with your caregiving duties at home, making it easier to care for your loved ones.
These tiny little breaks can go a long way for your mental health!
Remember to take care of yourself too.
Many caregivers feel guilty for taking a break, or taking some time for themselves. However, do remember that in order to take good care of your loved ones, you need to be healthy too! We hope that you have learned more about how to reduce caregiver stress, and how to care better for yourself.
With that, go ahead and take a deep breath for yourself now!
Resources
Get in touch with us
Need a break from caregiving duties? Find affordable caregiving services by visiting our elderly care page, or drop us a call at 6590 4300.
