7.11. Coping Strategies for CSS

 
Back         Next

cartoon

Sir Henry’s battle horse had a particular dislike for any battle-related stress.

 

The emotional and physical demands of caregiving can stress even the most resilient person.

 
Therefore, it is very important to take advantage of all the resources and tools available to help you with the care of your loved one. Here are several strategies that can help you to cope with the CSS:
 

Request and accept help

 
   Don’t wait until you have to say: “I can’t take it anymore”
 
   If you need help, ask for it openly, do not wait for others
 
   Be clear about what kind of help you need
 
   Ask your doctor at your health centre or local council for advice
 
 

Focus on what you can give

 
   It is normal to feel guilty but understand that there is no such thing as a “perfect” caregiver. Think that you are doing the best you can and making the best possible decisions at all times
 
 

Set realistic goals

 
   Break big tasks into smaller steps that you can do one at a time. Prioritise, make lists, and establish a daily routine
 
 

Set personal health goals

 
   Lead a healthy life
 
   Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep affects slowly and unknowingly our health
 
   Exercise regularly
 
 

Organise your time

 
   Anticipate any setbacks that may arise
 
   Lead an orderly life that allows you to allocate the resources available to you
 
   Do not take on more than what you can: It is common to do tasks that the cared one can do independently, such as dressing, eating, etc. Do not do this, as the person will stop doing them and increase their burden
 
 

Apply the assertive rights of the caregiver

 
   The right to devote time and activities to yourself, without feelings of guilt
 
   The right to solve for yourself what you are able to and to ask questions about what you do not understand
 
   The right to be treated with respect by those from whom we seek advice and help
 
 

Seek social support

 
   Try to stay connected to family and friends who can offer non-judgmental emotional support
 
   Do not isolate yourself
 
 

Use relaxation techniques: there are several relaxation techniques that can help relieve stress.

 
   Visualisation (mentally imagining a relaxing and calming place or situation)
 
   Meditation
 
   Breathing exercises (slowing down your breathing and focusing on taking deep breaths)
 
   Progressive muscle relaxation (contract and relax each muscle group, starting with one part of the body and working your way to the other end)
 
 
 
Back         Next
 

progress bar

Coping with Caregiver’s Stress:
85% complete