Informal care and personal health
Do you find that your own health is taking a back seat because of informal care? Perhaps you’re putting off appointments, sleeping poorly or have little time for exercise. You forget to eat healthily or to rest. You’re very focused on the other person, but your own body and mind also need attention. Informal care can be rewarding, but it can also be a strain. If your own health deteriorates, looking after the other person will ultimately become more difficult too. Taking good care of yourself is therefore not a secondary concern. It is essential if you are to be able to continue providing care.
What do you notice?
Your own health may gradually come under strain.
You may, for example, notice that:
- you often feel tired;
- you have trouble sleeping;
- you feel more tension;
- you exercise less;
- you eat less healthily due to a lack of time;
- you postpone your medical appointments;
- you experience pain;
- you relax less;
- you pay little attention to your own needs.
Sometimes you only realise how difficult it is when you fall ill yourself or can no longer recharge your batteries.
What might be the reason for this?
Informal care often takes up a lot of time, attention and energy. As a result, your own routines are more likely to fall by the wayside. Think of exercise, rest, socialising, hobbies and healthcare appointments.
Worries and responsibilities also affect your health. Your mind remains active, even when practical care is temporarily suspended.
In addition, feelings of guilt may play a part. You may feel that the other person comes first. However, your health needs just as much attention.
What can you do yourself?
It helps to make your own health a conscious part of the care situation.
For example, you could:
- plan regular breaks;
- to ensure your own healthcare appointments go ahead;
- a short bout of exercise every day;
- ask for help so that you can recover;
- keep eating well, even on busy days;
- take signs of stress seriously;
- maintaining social contacts;
- discuss what happens if you are unable to work.
Ask yourself regularly: what do I need to keep this up?
When is it advisable to seek help?
It is wise to seek help if caring for a loved one is clearly affecting your health. It is also a good idea to seek advice if you are having trouble sleeping, are often tired, are experiencing symptoms or no longer have any time for yourself.
Please get in touch if you are feeling down, becoming exhausted or continue to experience physical symptoms.
How Rondom can help
Together, we’ll look at how informal care affects your health. We’ll focus on sleep, energy levels, stress, exercise, recovery and daily habits.
A lifestyle coach can help with rhythm, sleep, nutrition, exercise and recovery. A occupational therapist can provide support in sharing care responsibilities and managing energy levels. In cases of emotional pressure or feelings of guilt, psychological support should be appropriate.
Together, we will look for practical ways to protect your own health as well.
