TIPS  FOR  CARING  FOR  YOURSELF  AS  A  CAREGIVER

Caring for someone living with cancer is one of the greatest gifts of love.  It is extremely rewarding to put aside your life to care for another, but can be mentally draining and frustrating.

Here are some tips caregivers can do for themselves while they care for others with terminally ill diseases.

Maintain a good sense of humor - Laughter is one of the greatest medicines. 

Take care of your self – Get enough rest, exercise daily and maintain good nutrition. These are very important whenever you are caring for another.

Make use of Available Resources – Find out about resources for cancer patients and their caregivers. It is advisable to join support groups to share experiences with others in similar situations.

Maintain Your Boundaries – Give as much as you can to the patients but always know your limitations. When you give beyond your abilities and sacrifice your own needs, you may feel a sense of bitterness and resentment.

Keep a Journal – A great way to express those thoughts and inner feelings since you may not want to share openly, you can write a daily journal. Reflections normally assist a person to monitor your stress and know if you are overextending yourself.

Educate Yourself – To understand your loved ones illness, you have to learn what they are going through.

Pamper Yourself – Take a massage, pray, listen to your favorite music stations, read an inspirational book, maintain your friendships. Caring for others does not mean giving up on your own needs and personal desires.