Everyone who has flown the friendly skies is familiar with the quote, “Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.” This statement is true on a metaphorical level as well as a literal level: before you can be effective in helping others, you need to care for yourself first.
November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time that we pause to appreciate those who care for family and loved ones. This year’s theme is “Take Care to Give Care.” Currently, there are 90 million caregivers in the United States who provide full-time or part-time care for someone else. Caregiving has its rewards, but it can be physically and emotionally taxing. Meeting the needs of others can mean that you neglect your own wellness by not getting adequate rest or proper nutrition.
If you are a caregiver, please “take care to give care” this month, and every month thereafter. Here are some tips to help you:
- When you schedule health screenings and appointments for your loved ones, schedule yours as well. With all the demands of your loved one’s doctor appointments, don’t neglect your own health. Take the time to schedule well visits with your primary care physician and preventative screenings like colonoscopies. You could even schedule your appointments back-to-back with those of your loved one! Your health is just as important, and you need those well visits and screenings so you can give the best care to others.
- Have back-up. Every now and then, you will get sick too. Having supplemental support will allow you the much-needed time off and rest that you require to recover from illness and recharge your battery. Ask a fellow family member, neighbor or spouse to be your stand-in if you need time off for errands, vacation or a sick day.
- Take care of your emotional health. Caregivers are twice as likely to become depressed and are at risk for other chronic conditions. Taking care of others can be isolating and lonely. Be aware of the symptoms of depression and make an appointment with your doctor if you notice changes in your mood or behavior. Stress can also make you more susceptible to conditions like hypertension, heart disease and stroke (Source: Caregiver Action).
“Take Care to Give Care” this November. Remember: caring for yourself is the most loving thing you can do for yourself—and your loved one!