Care for the Caregiver
When you are the caregiver for a cancer patient, especially one with chronic fatigue, it may fall to you to be the main liaison between them and their healthcare team. The role can be emotionally and physically draining, and while often very rewarding, can also be very stressful. In order to take care of someone else, you need to take care of your own physical and mental health. Taking care of yourself will make you a more effective caregiver.
The tips provided in Living Well to eat & sleep well, and reduce stress all apply to you as well. Below is a very short summary so be sure to check out Living Well for more information for both you and your loved one.
- Nutrition –You need energy throughout your long days to care for your loved one and ward off illness. Try to eat simple, nutritious meals, and drink 6-8 glasses of water each day. Try to minimize caffeine and alcohol.
- Keep exercising – Your days are already full, but even 15 minutes of exercise will help you relax and feel better. Walking, jogging, swimming, bicycling and yoga are energizing. Playing with the kids counts!
- Get enough rest – Another tough request. Consider outsourcing the tasks that are keeping you from getting to bed on time, such as housekeeping.
- Relax – You may find it challenging to balance your own life and the demands of a sick loved one. But if left unmanaged, stress can lead to health problems including depression. Relaxation exercises may help relieve stress and anxiety. Find a quiet place and arrange at least 15 minutes without interruption.
- Depression – Read about the signs of depression for both you and the one you are caring for.