13 Strategies for Controlling Your Stress
- Recognize that it is normal to need a break. Use respite and healthcare resources available to you. Taking a break, and ensuring your loved one is well cared for is one of the best ways to reduce stress.
- If you need financial help, ask. Don’t be afraid to ask family members to contribute their fair share.
- Don’t over commit yourself. Say “no” to requests that are draining and stressful, such as hosting holiday meals.
- Forgive yourself for your imperfections. There is no such thing as a “perfect” caregiver.
- Identify what you can and cannot change. You may not be able to change someone else’s behavior, but you can change the way that you react to it.
- Set realistic goals. Break large tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time.
- Stay organized. Prioritize, make lists, and establish a daily routine.
- Enjoy fulfilling relationships. Keep in touch with family and friends and make time for yourself.
- Join a support group for caregivers. If your loved one has a particular affliction, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, look for a support group targeted at that disease.
- 10. Take care of yourself. Eat well, get adequate sleep and make time to be physically active on most days, even if it’s a short walk. Eat a healthy well-balanced diet and get enough sleep.
- See your doctor regularly for checkups.
- Find joy in life. Keep your sense of humor and practice positive thinking.
- Take a break from you job. If you work outside the home, consider taking a break from your job. Employees covered under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act may be able to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year to care for relatives.
Adopted from article By Marlo Sollitto, Agingcare.com