Caring for a dependent family member is not an easy task. Many times, those who assume this responsibility are not prepared for it and, over time, the physical and emotional wear and tear can be devastating. Behind every informal caregiver, there is a story of love, commitment and/or sacrifice, but also of exhaustion. The daily challenge of caring for another human being, especially when there is no professional training, can lead to a spiral of pressure that, in the long term, affects the health of the caregiver as much or more than that of the person in charge.
Experts from Hospital Clínic Barcelona highlight the importance of self-care in these cases and offer valuable recommendations for caregivers to maintain their well-being while continuing to support their loved ones. Ignoring self-care can lead to burnout, which manifests itself in subtle ways: chronic muscle pain, anxiety disguised as constant worry, or tiredness that seems endless. However, many caregivers do not pay attention to these signs as they prioritize their loved one before themselves. In times of exhaustion, it is essential to have an emotional support network capable of identifying warning signs and providing time for self-care. Jesús, caregiver, explains that “The larger the circle that surrounds the caregiver, the more comfortable and feasible it is to get ahead.”
Detecting signs of burnout is essential to maintaining the well-being of the caregiver and the person in their care.
This is one of the key points: To take good care of another, you must first take care of yourself. Although this phrase may seem trite, it is especially relevant for those who face the challenge of caring for another person’s life. The first step towards healthier and more balanced care is, without a doubt, asking for help. For many caregivers, this may seem strange, almost like a sign of failure, but the opposite is true. Concha, caregiver of a person with Alzheimer’s, explains: “Being a caregiver is difficult. And, sometimes, at least in my case, you have a feeling of guilt.” To cope with this feeling, it is important to share responsibilities with family and friends, or turn to professional assistance services. This not only lightens the load, but also improves the quality of care offered.
The organization is a great ally. Planning the day, establishing schedules and leaving spaces for rest helps the caregiver maintain a balance between their tasks and their well-being. It is also important to promote the autonomy of the dependent family member, whenever possible, since it not only promotes their recovery, but also reduces the responsibilities of the caregiver.
Although it may seem difficult, maintaining healthy habits is essential. Eating well, getting enough rest and exercising, no matter how complicated it may be in the midst of the whirlwind of everyday life, is necessary for the caregiver to stay strong, both physically and emotionally. These are not big changes, but small adjustments: Take advantage of free moments to walk, relax or simply disconnect.
“Being a caregiver is difficult. And, sometimes, at least in my case, you have a feeling of guilt”
Furthermore, it is essential not to lose sight of the warning signs. Sadness, extreme tiredness, a feeling of loneliness, increased irritability or difficulty concentrating are signs that burnout is beginning to take its toll. In these cases, seeking psychological or medical support is a brave and necessary decision.
The message is clear: Being a caregiver does not mean neglecting one’s own needs. It is important to remember that you also have the right to rest, delegate tasks, ask for help and express your own emotions. Recognizing these needs is not a sign of weakness, but rather an act of responsibility towards oneself and towards the loved one being cared for.
Fundamental rights
Caregivers have the right to:
1
Take time for yourself without experiencing guilt
2
Feel negative emotions
3
Solve on your own what is in your capacity and consult when you have doubts or do not understand something
4
Find practical solutions that adapt to your needs and those of the person in your charge
5
Receive respectful treatment of the environment
6
Err
7
be valued
8
Validate yourself for doing everything you can within your abilities.
9
Have time and space
10
Express your emotions freely
11
Refuse to comply with demands that they consider excessive, inappropriate or unreasonable
12
Maintain your own life, without having to give up your well-being
#protect #health #care
