Self-Care for Caretakers

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Self-Care for Caretakers

Being an advocate for your family member with schizophrenia requires emotional and physical energy. This energy needs to be replenished regularly so that you can be your best. While I realize that taking care of yourself may be the last thing that you have time to do, even short, periodic breaks can be helpful. One of the things that helped me was to get outside and enjoy nature. I did not always have time to go to a park but at least taking a walk or sitting outside for a while gave me a chance to remember that "life goes on" and that there are other things in the world besides the worries on my plate. Breathing in fresh air, watching a bird in flight,or noticing the variety of colors in a yard or garden are all ways to give your mind a respite and your body a rest.

A recent study comparing caregivers with noncaregivers found higher rates of anxiety, depression, and insomnia for caregivers. In addition physical health can be compromised. (for more information go to www. caregiver.org). Like airline passengers who are instructed to put an oxygen mask on themselves before helping their children , caregivers need to make sure they are healthy and breathing well too. How terrible would it be for a child to see their parent passed out in the seat next to them because they didn't have time to put on their own mask?

Start small if necessary. Five to ten minutes is better than nothing and if possible build up to more.

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Recent Editorial Opinion By Dr. Snow-Griffin