TAKING CARE OF OURSELVES SO WE CAN CARE FOR OTHERS

For those in the caregiver role, prioritizing your own health is essential. As a caregiver, your pharmacist can provide guidance to support you in fulfilling your responsibilities without jeopardizing your well-being.

Providing care to someone who is unwell demands significant time and energy. Many caregivers do so with dedication, often overlooking the potential impact on other aspects of their lives, including family relationships, spousal connections, and work commitments. If you find yourself in this caregiving role, our pharmacist is here to offer advice and assistance to ensure that you can maintain your health while fulfilling your caregiving responsibilities. Your overall well-being

TAKING GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF FIRST

Maintaining a healthy diet forms the foundation of overall well-being. While occasional treats like a glass of wine or a pastry are acceptable, it’s crucial to ensure they don’t become coping mechanisms for stress relief.

Regular exercise contributes significantly to both physical and mental health. You don’t necessarily need to join a gym; simple activities like taking a walk or dancing while doing household chores can be effective. The key is to engage in physical activity every day, aiming for at least 30 minutes. Choose activities that you enjoy and that can easily fit into your busy schedule. Prioritize your health by incorporating these habits into your daily routine.

MANAGING YOUR STRESS

Caregivers often face various stressors, including:

  • Undertaking new responsibilities without sufficient training (such as caregiving or managing finances).
  • Limited time to address numerous obligations.
  • Unrealistic expectations about their own capabilities or those of the person they are caring for.
  • Conflicts with the individual they are caring for or other family members.
  • Feelings of isolation.

The initial step involves identifying the specific sources of stress to explore solutions and seek assistance when necessary.

TASK SHARING

As a caregiver, you may sometimes feel that you are the only person who can do it all, but help is available. To help you have a better global view of the tasks at hand, make a list of what needs to be done and put it in order of priority. Next, choose your battles and delegate. If you don’t have anyone who can help, don’t hesitate to call aid agencies.

MANY ORGANIZATIONS CAN HELP WITH VARIOUS PROBLEMS

Numerous services are available to assist in various aspects of life, including:

  • Services aiding with housework or grocery shopping.
  • Prepared meal delivery services.
  • Adapted transportation services.
  • Day or respite services, providing the ill person with a few hours or days of support.
  • Home nursing services.
  • Caregiver support and exchange groups.
  • Legal or financial advice services.

If you require assistance but are unsure which organization to reach out to, do not hesitate to consult with your pharmacist. They can guide you in connecting with the appropriate services. Utilizing the 211 service is another option to identify available support in your area. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to help you access the support you need.

RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS OF BURNOUT

When fully committed to a caregiver role, it’s common to overlook signs of personal distress. However, recognizing these signs early is crucial for making necessary adjustments or seeking the required assistance.

If you find yourself experiencing any of the following situations, reach out to your pharmacist. They can provide support and assist you in accessing the resources you need:

  • Significant fatigue or exhaustion
  • Irritability or impatience
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in appetite, such as loss of appetite or eating more than usual
  • Feeling overwhelmed by the caregiving situation
  • Experiencing guilt for perceived shortcomings

Your pharmacist is here to offer assistance, and by recognizing these signs, you are taking a proactive step towards prioritizing your well-being.

YOUR PHARMACIST IS HERE TO HELP

Whether it’s to answer your questions regarding a person’s medication or just to listen and support you in your caregiver role, your pharmacist is here to help!