While caring for another, consider yourself, too

By Dennis Thompson

(HealthDay News) -- It's a mantra of sorts for caregivers: Take care of yourself or you won't be able to care for others.

But just what does that mean?

For starters, try to strike a balance each day between caring for someone you love and caring for yourself, recommends the U.S. National Cancer Institute. Focus on your needs, too, and make time each day for resting and relaxing.

Putting your own needs on the shelf for too long simply isn't good for your health.

The institute suggests that caregivers:

Get in touch with your feelings. Sadness, anger, grief, guilt and loneliness are all normal feelings experienced by caregivers. Sharing these feelings with someone -- a friend, religious or spiritual leader, family member or a doctor -- might help you work through them. If they linger, consider talking to a counselor or social worker.
Ask for help. You don't have to do it all yourself. Former caregivers, in fact, often admit that's exactly what they tried to do, and they regret it. Instead, think about what others might help with -- cooking, cleaning, shopping, yard work or picking up your child, perhaps. And let go of tasks that aren't critical at this time in your life.
Create time for yourself. Do something you really enjoy, whether it's watching a favorite TV show, going to lunch with an old friend or working on a favorite hobby. Don't forget to keep in touch with others, even if it's by phone or e-mail if you can't get away when they're free. And find a way to incorporate a little physical activity into your routine -- go for a walk, work in the garden, dance to your favorite music.
Join a support group. With others who are caregivers, you'll discover you're not alone, which most people find comforting. And most likely you'll pick up some tips from others' experiences, along with ideas for coping, too. Even if you just listen, you can learn and feel better at the same time.