Caregivers: prioritizing self-care for well-being

Dr. Tyra Oldham. Photo provided Caregivers’ desire to care for others as family members or professionals can often overlook their own needs. When providing dedicated support to loved ones or clients is admirable, neglecting one’s own health can lead to burnout and poor well-being. Therefore, it’s imperative for caregivers to dedicate time to plan and prioritize their social, physical, mental, and spiritual health. Caregivers, no matter if paid or unpaid, face challenges each day. A caregiver becomes aware that flexibility is key when caring for others. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help caregivers to support themselves: Acknowledge the Importance of Self-Care: Recognize that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s a necessary component of an effective caregiver. Prioritize your well-being to ensure you can provide quality care to your loved one or client/patient. Self-care is emotional, physical, and spiritual, requiring specialization in each area. Seek doctors regularly and counsel for mental support, while prayer or other forms of spiritual rejuvenation can be helpful. Build a Support Network: Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends, family members, or support groups. A reliable support network and a “village” alleviates stress and provides emotional and physical reinforcement during challenging times. Caregivers can feel that asking is...