As a carer, you are fulfilling an incredibly important role in making sure that someone has all they need in order to feel well looked after.
In turn, you should remember to look after yourself too. We have put together a ‘top 10’ tips of how to look after your own wellbeing.
1. Eat well and enjoy a balanced diet
There are very strong links between what we eat and how it makes us feel. It’s important to try and eat a balanced diet with plenty of food and drink that is good for you - with a little treat here and there for good measure! The NHS have produced some handy pointers on how to live well. We also quite like the BBC Good Food’s tasty tips for recipes that promote good health.
2. Find a way to relax and have a go at some mindfulness
It’s not always easy to switch-off when you are feeling stressed. Ironically, it can be hard to relax, even if you are feeling tired. Many people say that practising mindfulness can work wonders for shutting off from time to time. Try it and see if it works for you – we recommend Headspace as a good place to start.
3. Manage your sleep and rest periods
Sleeping can be a challenge when you are caring for someone who may need attention during the night. However, ensuring that you have a calm and comfortable environment to sleep in when you are able to can be a real help to make sure that the sleep you do get is good quality. Take a look at the Sleep Council’s guide for some guidance on getting some shut-eye. If you are still struggling to sleep because of the pressures you are facing, seek some guidance from your GP.
4. Speak to people who will understand and support you
Many people are lucky to have a strong support network of friends, family, colleagues and/or neighbours. But some carers may live quite a distance from people they know, or may not want to trouble them with their circumstances. It might be useful for you to go along to a local support group to speak to others in a similar situation to yourself, or give your nearest carer support centre a call to talk things through.
5. Find space for a bit of “me” time
Is there a particular hobby that you enjoy or have been meaning to have a go at? It could be as simple as doing a puzzle book, watching a film or reading, or something a bit more adventurous. Whatever it is, make sure you get a chance to enjoy it occasionally. Getting back in touch with what you like doing means that you will still feel like your own person as well as a carer.
6. Do a bit of gentle exercise and get some fresh air
Being active, no matter what the pace, can have positive effects on your mental and physical health. Whether it’s a short stroll to the local shop, or something a little longer and more intensive, getting some fresh air can help you to re-balance and clear your head.
7. Make sure you ask for help if you need it
A lot of us are too proud to admit that we may be struggling. You should never see accepting help or respite as a sign of weakness but as a means of giving you a bit of time out. Having a bit of headspace will give you the opportunity to feel refreshed and more able to carry on caring. If you ever feel that everything is getting on top of you and you can’t see a way out, please make sure you speak to someone at the Samaritans who will listen to your worries.
8. Have a health check and take care of your body
Did you know that Carer Support Wiltshire runs Carer Clinics at many GP practices in Wiltshire? Make sure you get in touch with your local surgery to see if they offer one that you could go along to. It is really important that you don’t ignore any signs or symptoms that your body might be struggling – although you are very busy looking after the person you care for, your health is just as important.
9. Try to stay as informed as you can
There is a wealth of information and knowledge out there which could be useful to you in your caring role. When we feel informed, it empowers us to feel that we are doing the best that we can possibly do. After all, knowledge is power! Don’t be afraid to ask questions of professionals or find out more about any particular topics which you are unsure about.
10. You decide….!
Every carer is unique so these tips won’t work for everyone. We know that each individual has their own way of coping and looking after their own wellbeing.
How do you look after yourself as a carer? Please feel free to email us your thoughts and suggestions to share with others - it may become our 10th tip!
Bryony says
Singing, singing and more singing! It is amazingly therapeutic and relaxing, gives me a little respite and it can be done almost anywhere (although I do get some odd looks in the street and the supermarket!!!
Fiona Cromwell says
That’s a great tip, thanks Bryony! I don’t think you’re alone in finding singing therapeutic. And hey, why not do it wherever you are… so long as it makes you happy, that’s what matters!