Have you said one of these statements?
For caregivers, feelings isolated and lonely is a common complaint I hear and what I experienced quite often myself and a lot during the holidays. You feel isolated and withdrawn from your family, friends and your daily routines. You most likely had to replace time with caregiving duties or you stay behind from activities since your spouse can’t go.
In a recent June 2020, National Center for Health article.
This can lead to a withdrawal from social activities and relationships that you previously enjoyed. You may also find that you’re literally facing isolation.
I am sure lonely feels are present for you too.
So let’s talk about how to reduce those feelings and talk through some tips.
I have a 4 question process - four questions to ask yourself. It’s best if you grab a pen and notebook and journal these questions. You’ll be able to look back on these and gain insights.
1. Why am I lonely?
2. What am I missing?
3. How do I feel?
Once you have a clear picture of the facts and your feelings, you can then move into ways to improve your situation.
4. How do I manage and improve your loneliness?
Here’s a few ideas I brainstormed.
I know what you are saying. I can’t do these things.
But if you don’t….
“My caregiver mantra is to remember: the only control you have is over the changes you choose to make.”
– Nancy L. Kriseman
#chooseyourjoy #chooseyourattiude #chooseyourway
I hope you enjoyed today’s episode. Caregiving can be very overwhelming but when you break it down and focus on yourself first, YOU CAN manage this.
