Caregiver

Guest post by Tonya Spitler

The Caregiver

Becoming a caregiver for a loved one can happen in the blink of an eye. Split second decisions need to be made. Perhaps there was an accident, a diagnosis, or a sudden realization that your loved one couldn’t be on their own anymore. No matter how you find yourself there, it’s a massive decision. Perhaps you always knew you’d care for your loved one. Maybe you’re finding yourself taking it on reluctantly. Either way, there are challenges and decisions that need to be made.

Cultural Expectations

There are cultural expectations that may influence your decision. In my family, for example, everyone steps up and cares for whomever is in need. It’s not only the example that has been set, but the expectation. This adds a huge amount of pressure to the caregiver, whether they realize it or not. 

Burnout

So, what happens when things go wrong? Or, when you need a break? Studies have shown that caregivers are at higher risk of developing anxiety and depression. They are at higher risk of medical issues due to not following up on their own health care, physical strain of caring for another, etc. Sometimes, a caregiver just needs a break, but doesn’t have anyone to turn to.
Enter burnout.
Even the most dedicated caregiver will experience burnout without a plan in place, and it will affect everyone around them. Even their loved-one. So, how do you avoid burnout?

Planning

Have a plan in place. Regular self-care and time away can help prevent burnout. Create a list of people who could provide a bit of respite. An afternoon away, a weekend. Line up outside help. There are often resources available for people who require care. Some are fee based, some are not. Find a support group, either in person or online. It helps to know you’re not alone.
Have the plan in place BEFORE you need it.

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Caring for a loved one is a beautiful act. One that can be beneficial for both the caregiver and the patient. Memories can be made that last a lifetime, if you plan ahead and know your limitations. Caregivers are so very important. Whether they be family, friends, or professional, they can change the course of someone’s life. Caregivers deserve support as well. Which is why The Caregiver’s Journal for Avoiding Burnout was created. It focuses on the caregiver as a whole. Providing space to reflect, create plans, make decisions, and care for themselves as well. It’s the perfect journal for anyone who finds themselves caring for someone on a daily basis. My hope is that it helps even one caregiver not feel so alone and overwhelmed in their journey.

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Tonya Spitler is the author of the Focus Journal The Caregiver's Journal for Avoiding Burnout.  She is also a contributing author to the upcoming anthology Along the Shore: Strategies for Living with Grief edited by Cheryl Lynn West. When she isn't writing or reading, Tonya is homeschooling her three tween/teen children. Tonya is a recent transplant to the central Texas area and enjoys exploring her new home with her family. Currently, you can find Tonya at her website www.anovelchoicellc.com or on Instagram @anovelchoicellc or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/anovelchoice/.