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)
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