Why "Filling Your Own Cup First" is so important.
Most of us are familiar with the phrase: “Fill your own cup first.” Self-care is critical, especially when taking care of others. Caregivers might not feel they have time or energy to practice self-care. Between managing medicine and dietary needs, transporting loved ones to and from appointments, and helping with personal care, caregivers are often stretched too thin. When adults are caring for their aging parent(s), they face a heavy burden. The experience often leaves caregivers:
- Feeling tired
- A sense of loneliness/isolation
- Resentment toward their loved one
- With little to no time for themselves
- With the idea that they are the only who can “do it right”
- With feelings of guilt if they put themselves first
It is important to slow down and practice self-awareness. Here are more tips to find balance in your life as you care for a loved one:
- Self-Compassion: It has been said the leading factor in living a fulfilled life is being kinder to yourself. When you are pulled in a million different directions and unable to make everything work out, you might default to negative self-talk. Try emotional check-ins to raise awareness and give yourself a break.
- Ask for help: Avoid burnout by communicating with other family members or friends and requesting support. There are local aging resources and centers that might offer helpful tools.
- Mental Health: Make time to talk to a therapist to help you through the challenges. You don’t have to face it all alone.
- Plan a schedule: Get as organized as possible to map out your day-to-day.
- Prioritize getting enough sleep and eating well.
For additional tips on how Trinity Health PACE partners with caregivers, go here.
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