CAREGIVER TIPS

What do I need to know?

Many people are nervous before a healthcare visit. When one of those visits reveals unexpected news for a relative or close family friend, our emotions run the gamut. We become overwhelmed and don’t know where to start. If you find yourself in this situation, take these three steps to ground yourself.

1 BREATHE

The breath enables us to move forward. But, when we’re stressed or upset, one of the first things we forget to do is breathe! So, give yourself five minutes to get a good flow of breath going.

Start with this technique:

WEB RESOURCES

2 REASSURE

Your loved one is just as if not even more afraid than you. Let them know that you are there and will do your best to see them through. We might think the action of being there for everything conveys our support, but sometimes people need to hear your words.

3 PACE YOURSELF

Take things one step at a time. Before launching into problem-solving mode, do what doesn’t come naturally. Ask for help. Create a list of family and friends that could provide support. These folks can:

Comprehensive Resources

Comprehensive Resources

What do I need to know?

1 BREATHE

The breath enables us to move forward. But, when we’re stressed or upset, one of the first things we forget to do is breathe! So, give yourself five minutes to get a good flow of breath going.

Start with this technique:

Push all the air out of your lungs before taking a deep breath.

Inhale.

Extend your exhale.

Repeat for two to five minutes.

WEB RESOURCES

2 REASSURE

Your loved one is just as if not even more afraid than you. Let them know that you are there and will do your best to see them through. We might think the action of being there for everything conveys our support, but sometimes people need to hear your words.

Hugs go a long way as well to reassure both of you.

If you have siblings or other family and friends that know your loved one, ask them to pay a visit. Seeing familiar faces as this journey starts is a good thing.

3 PACE YOURSELF

Take things one step at a time. Before launching into problem-solving mode, do what doesn’t come naturally. Ask for help. Create a list of family and friends that could provide support. These folks can:

Help with the care of your loved one through visits, taking your loved one to doctor appointments, or delivering meals, housecleaning, etc.

Be patient. Easier said than done, but try to take a step back when things get more difficult. And, breathe.

Provide support by keeping an eye on you and remind you to take care of your health.

Research resources such as housecleaners and meal prep services.

And, they can remind you to take a few minutes for yourself.

WEB RESOURCES

What do I need to know?

1 BREATHE

The breath enables us to move forward. But, when we’re stressed or upset, one of the first things we forget to do is breathe! So, give yourself five minutes to get a good flow of breath going.

​

Start with this technique:

Push all the air out of your lungs before taking a deep breath.

Inhale.

Extend your exhale.

Repeat for two to five minutes.

WEB RESOURCES

2 REASSURE

Your loved one is just as if not even more afraid than you. Let them know that you are there and will do your best to see them through. We might think the action of being there for everything conveys our support, but sometimes people need to hear your words. ​

Hugs go a long way as well to reassure both of you.

If you have siblings or other family and friends that know your loved one, ask them to pay a visit. Seeing familiar faces as this journey starts is a good thing.

3 PACE YOURSELF

Take things one step at a time. Before launching into problem-solving mode, do what doesn’t come naturally. Ask for help. Create a list of family and friends that could provide support. These folks can:​

Help with the care of your loved one through visits, taking your loved one to doctor appointments, or delivering meals, housecleaning, etc.

Be patient. Easier said than done, but try to take a step back when things get more difficult. And, breathe.

Provide support by keeping an eye on you and remind you to take care of your health.

Research resources such as housecleaners and meal prep services.

And, they can remind you to take a few minutes for yourself.

WEB RESOURCES

Your loved one is just as if not even more afraid than you. Let them know that you are there and will do your best to see them through. We might think the action of being there for everything conveys our support, but sometimes people need to hear your words.

Take things one step at a time. Before launching into problem-solving mode, do what doesn’t come naturally. Ask for help. Create a list of family and friends that could provide support. These folks can: