7 Tips to Prevent Caregiver Burnout During the Holidays

7 TIPS TO PREVENT CAREGIVER BURNOUT During the Holidays 1. WATCH FOR SIGNS OF STRESS As a caregiver, you are probably used to putting the needs of others first Check in with yourself about any stress you may be experiencing Signs of stress can include changing moods, fatigue, or a lack of motivation Take time for yourself when you feel stress coming on 2. KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS The holidays can be a stressful time for everyone, and even more so for caregivers Holidays may trigger feelings of grief or loss You may have relatives visit who trigger your stress Identify your triggers and be proactive in avoiding them 3. BE POSITIVE It's easy to get bogged down with all of your responsibilities during the holidays Realize all of your emotions are perfectly valid, and try to focus on the positive Be grateful for the help you receive, instead of resentful of the help you're not getting Focus on what you are able to do, rather than on the things you can't 4. PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE Make sure you give yourself time for exercise to clear your mind Try meditation or yoga for a gentle way to relax and ease tension Get outside if the weather permits, even if just for a short walk around the neighborhood Be mindful of what you eat and limit fatty, sugary foods that can make you feel worse 5. TAKE TIME TO RELIEVE STRESS Before the holidays arrive, jot down activities that help you relieve stress These could include walking, singing, writing in a journal, or talking with a friend Keep the list handy during the holidays as a reminder of what works best for you Try to practice these activities before your stress gets out of hand 6. ASK FOR HELP It's completely reasonable to need a little help, especially during the holidays Seek out friends, family, or professional respite care when you need a break Asking for help can benefit you as well as those you care for This can free you up to do errands, attend holiday events, or take time for yourself 7. SIMPLIFY YOUR HOLIDAY SCHEDULE It can be tempting to try to do everything you're asked to during the holidays This can lead to overextending yourself, causing stress and burnout Decorate just a few rooms instead of your entire house Pick and choose which functions to attend instead of trying to get to them all PROVIDED BY: A VALO N MEMORY CARE SINCE 1995 BLOG.AVALONMEMORYCARE.COM SOURCES: http://www.aarp.org/home-family/caregiving/ info-12-2013/caregiving-holiday-stress-goyer.html https://www.mymedicarematters.org/2016/ 10/avoid-caregiver-burnout-during-holidays/