Whether you are a licensed caregiver or a family one, you would have to admit that this job is very stressful. The job includes many tasks that are physically tiring and can mentally wear you out. That’s why many caregivers feel totally drained all the time. They forget to set aside some time for them to socialize and do the things they like to do. In the long run, this can be a very bad situation to be in. However, if you are feeling stress with your caregiving responsibilities, here are some tips to keep in mind to keep negative tensions at bay.
Outline what you can and cannot do.
One of the common errors that caregivers make is having the idea that they can everything in their caregiving tasks. This is one of the reasons that develop their mental distress in their work. In order to manage and reduce stress, you have to realize and make a list of the tasks that you can and cannot do. In a family caregiving situation, you can include and involve other member of the family in taking care of an elderly patient. Remember that you don’t have to do all the tasks if you are not up to it.
Educate yourself about the task and condition.
Caregivers also need to keep in mind that they have to grow in their chosen field. It takes more than just assisting a long term care recipient with their daily activities; you would also need to know the latest trends in this profession. By being aware of the current trends, it would help you to become better in your career. Another thing to keep in mind is also to research on your patient’s condition. This would also help in giving the care that they would need especially if they need long term services and support.
Learn to acknowledge and express what you are feeling.
Caregivers are also not free from thinking negative thoughts. Why not, they are also human after all. For family caregivers, some of the common negative emotions they feel are depression, guilt and anxiety. It always best to learn to acknowledge these feelings and express them. Some use a journal while others form a support group. It would really depend on how you would like to deal with emotions. It’s always best to acknowledge and express them so that they do not get in the way of your caregiving tasks.
It’s an understatement to say that caregiving is a stressful work. With the physical and mental demands of the job, caregivers are one of the most stressed out workers in the job market. However, caregivers can reduce stress by setting boundaries of the task they can and cannot do. They would also need to educate themselves with the latest trends in caregiving and the condition of the patients that they are looking after.
Another way that a caregiver can reduce stress is learn to acknowledge and express what they are feeling. Negative emotions are prevalent in this type of work and caregiver whether professional or family should learn to express these feelings.
Sources:
longtermhealth 