There is a lot written about “Caregiver Burnout” and “Caregiver Stress.” What is really behind these negative headlines about caregiving, and what can we do about it?
Many people who care for an aging or ill loved one do find themselves feeling overwhelmed and pressured, as though they are being pulled in many different directions. Demands of a busy workplace and tons of paperwork can stress out professional care partners, too. These are people who love their work as healers and helpers, but may come to hate their “jobs.”
- When there is no time for quiet, reflection, or connection, caring people often find it difficult to tend to their personal needs, including taking care of their own health.
- When we’re working as hard as we can, whether caring for an Elder or at work, it can feel like we’re not making a difference.
If this situation is left unaddressed, the consequences can be feelings of guilt, or symptoms of depression and anxiety.
We may become tearful, or feel trapped. We can be at higher risk for potentially serious physical health problems, and even relationships with family and at work may be threatened!
I know something about this, being a professional who has had to learn the hard way about the importance of self-care and balancing work and personal life.
There really is an “Art” as well as a “Science” to caregiving. The Art is the personal touch, your intuition, your humor, and your innate ability to read situations and know what is needed.
The Science includes specific and practical strategies and techniques to manage schedules, balance care, communicate well, and understand the physical and emotional aspects of the needs of the Elder and of the other care partners.
I want to invite you to join me for Care Partner Connection: Office Hours. This series of mini-video blogs will address both the Art and the Science of Elder Care, supporting your growth and well-being on the Journey of caring for others as you care for your self.
My hope for Care Partner Connection: Office Hours is that we will create an interconnected community where we can support each other, both practically and artfully, so we can:
- gain feelings of greater peacefulness and spaciousness in our lives
- take time to engage in meaningful activities (without guilt)
- learn new strategies to share the care with others, and
- really start to know what it means to honor and care for ourselves
We can all feel more rested, more centered, and less alone on our Journey, and more aware of how we are all connected, constantly learning, and helping others grow on their path, as well.
You can be sure to receive all of the videos in this series, access supplementary resources, and engage in a deeper community conversation by registering for the Care Partner Connection: Office Hours Community at the following link: https://app.ruzuku.com/courses/30811/about
Membership is FREE, and you are most welcome to join us!
I’m eager to meet you, so let’s get started on our great adventure, together!!
Take care,
Lisa K.
