As a caregiver, you wear a LOT of hats. Nurse, chef, house cleaner, driver, advocate…just to name a few. We asked our community about the tasks and activities they regularly perform to help care for their family member or friend. They provided some amazing insights into what the life of a caregiver really looks like. Here are the 11 most common caregiver duties and responsibilities that our caregiving community reported: 1. Handling doctor’s appointments Caregivers are no stranger to regular trips to the doctor. Scheduling and confirming doctor’s appointments are one of the most common undertakings. Depending on the state of the patient, caretakers may need to attend the appointments as well to act as an advocate for their loved one and ensure they’re adhering to the current medical needs. 2. At-home care When your loved one isn’t in the hospital, caregivers take over doctor duty. Medication management is a very common task; patients may require multiple types of medication that need to be taken at specific times each day. Caregivers often need to control the medication administration as well as picking up prescriptions. Many patients will also need toilet assistance and help getting dressed and with bathing. 3. House-cleaning/maintenance Keeping your loved one’s home in good shape is an important part of caregiving. This involves basic day-to-day tasks like washing dishes, laundry, watering plants and dusting, as well as more intensive work like lawn care or hiring someone to fix the furnace if it breaks down. 4. Transportation Add chauffeur to the list of duties. Driving is one of the most common activities reported, whether it be heading to doctor’s appointments, social interactions, family events, church…the list goes on. Tip: You can request carpools, meal sign ups and much more when you write posts on your CaringBridge page. You can link your site with your favorite tools, like a personal fundraiser or calendar, so you’ll always have a place to send people when they ask, “How can I help?” 5. Cooking/feeding Providing meals is a regular duty for at-home caregivers. This involves buying groceries, cooking, meal-prepping and potentially helping to feed your loved one if they are not able to feed themselves. It’s important to provide your loved one with nutritious meals that follow any dietary guidelines their doctor has provided. Try to serve healthy proteins like chicken and fish alongside an array of colorful fruits and vegetables. Your loved one’s water intake is just as important – make sure they’re getting enough fluids as dehydration can lead to more issues. Tip: These easy, nutritious meals take less than 20 minutes to prepare, and are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. 6. Pet care Caregiving isn’t just for humans. A furry friend may also be part of the equation. If this is the case, make sure you’re stocked up on pet food, have annual vet appointments scheduled and a few pet sitters lined up in case of a last-minute hospital visit or a trip out of town. 7. Helping with exercise Getting proper physical activity may be an important part of your loved one’s care plan. Caregivers should make sure to add low-intensity workouts to the regular routine. This also could be a good opportunity to bond with your loved one as you both get your sweat on together. Tip: These at-home exercises are low-impact and are a great way to keep patients in shape (and avoid having to drive to the gym). 8. Organizing the calendar Coordinating your loved one’s schedule is an important part of caregiving. You want to make sure they’re getting to their appointments while also trying to fit in family and social events. Sometimes, the person in need of care is still in school, or requires assistance getting to work. So it’s important to track exactly when and where they need to be somewhere. 9. Running errands Even when your loved one is sick, little day-to-day errands still need to be completed. This includes clothes shopping, runs to the post office, getting oil changes and more. To get a realistic idea of what your loved one might need, try keeping track of all the errands you run in a month. Tip: Many online stores like Target and Amazon offer free and fast home delivery. For miscellaneous household items like toilet paper, laundry detergent and cat food, this can be the difference between an hour at the store, or simply answering the door. 10. Financial assistance Add banker to the list of hats. Caregivers frequently help out with paying bills, managing funds, helping with taxes and more. This assistance may also extend to helping out financially from their own pockets, a duty that for many is a significant burden. 11. Accepting help Ironically, caregivers often reveal that accepting help is one of the most challenging aspects of the experience. When you’re used to doing it all, it can become your default setting. But family and friends are willing and able to help, so let them! After all, you want to provide the best care for your loved one, and we all operate at our best when we’re supported. Giving up control can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean you’re incapable. In fact, accepting help shows your strength. So next time someone offers to take over carpool duty or help out around the house, just try saying, “yes!” It will get easier. Caregivers, we want to hear from you! These ideas came from our community of caregivers, but we always want more feedback! What other caregiving responsibilities are part of your regular routine? If you have any ideas, please share in the comments section below.

It’s a fact: caring for another person is stressful. Even though caregiving is one of the most rewarding and selfless acts of kindness a family member can provide, its challenges equal its gifts. In this article, we cover the symptoms and root causes of caregiver stress and offer insightful tips from current caregivers on how to relieve the tension. Use These Links to Navigate the Guide Defining caregiver stress Symptoms Causes Tips for caregivers Caregiver resources What Exactly is Caregiver Stress? Caregiver stress is the physical and emotional strain that results from providing continuous care for another person. When this stress is prolonged, it can cause serious physical and mental health problems for those providing the care. Caregiver stress may be the precursor to the more severe caregiver burnout, though many of the symptoms overlap. Symptoms of Caregiver Stress As a family caregiver, it’s important to keep an eye out for any negative physical or emotional symptoms you experience, as these can lead to long-term damage. Physical signs that you might be experiencing caregiver stress include: Frequent headaches or body aches Always feeling tired Sleeping too much or too little Rapid weight gain or weight loss Abusing alcohol, recreational drugs, or prescription medications Emotional signs of caregiver stress include: Moodiness – easily angered or irritated Persistent sadness or hopelessness Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities Feelings of loneliness or isolation from other people It’s known that the long-term effects of stress can be detrimental to health. Long-term symptoms can include: Serious mental health issues such as anxiety and depression Weakened immune system Digestive issues Alcoholism or drug addiction Increased risk for chronic diseases Short-term memory loss and issues paying attention If you or a loved one are exhibiting signs of caregiver stress, it’s important that you first talk to your doctor about ways to ease your symptoms. There are medications, holistic remedies, therapies and more that are designed to help. Causes of Caregiver Stress Common causes of stress include: financial strain, relationship role changes and lack of rest for the caregiver. The financial aspect of caring for your loved one can be one of the most troubling for caregivers. The average annual cost of caregiving-related expenses is $6,954 out-of-pocket or nearly 20% of a household’s average annual income. Caregivers often spend less money on leisure activities as a result with nearly half reporting a decrease in going out to eat or taking vacations due to the costs of caregiving. Another cause of stress is the emotional impact that comes from a reversal of caregiving roles. If caring for a parent or an older sibling it can be quite disorienting to start taking responsibility for someone who was previously responsible for you. Finally, many caregivers neglect to give themselves the additional rest necessary for good health, since their primary focus is often on their loved one. Providing frequent support for another human is essentially doubling the work our bodies are designed to do. We all have a finite amount of energy – both mental and physical – and when we refrain from taking regular breaks, we run on fumes and aren’t giving our own bodies what we need. Remember: giving your own body and mind the care they need is one of the most important components of being a good caregiver. Top Tips for Managing Caregiver Stress The feelings of tension you may feel as a caregiver can frustrate and exhaust you. Fortunately, there are plenty of helpful techniques you can use to manage your stress. We took to social media and got feedback from real caregivers on how they manage the pressure. Here are our favorite tips from fellow caregivers and thought leaders on how to deal with caregiver stress: 1. Complete Small Tasks to Regain Control When dealing with another person’s fluctuating health, it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed and out of control. If this describes you, try this caregiver’s simple, helpful tip: “Doing laundry was soothing for me. If I was feeling overwhelmed, I’d tell myself that I could do that one thing. It was helpful to make order out of chaos. I’d feel as though I had control over something, and I felt great satisfaction out of seeing neatly folded piles of laundry before I threw myself back into the fray.” 2. Eat Right What we put into our bodies is what we get out of them. Proper nutrition is crucial self-care that can be left to the wayside when under a lot of stress. However, stressful times are when your body needs healthy fuel the most. Avoid skipping meals, snacks or overindulging in alcohol. Instead, set aside regular times each day to enjoy a balanced breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner. For more ideas, check out this list of stress-relieving foods which include tea, salmon and (yay!) dark chocolate. 3. Get Enough Sleep When your mind is racing around a track with a million things to do on it, it’s only natural that your sleep may suffer. But you can’t avoid it: your body and brain unquestionably need time to recharge. Amazing things happen when you sleep, like muscle relaxation, tissue growth and repair and energy restoration. How well you sleep affects nearly every aspect of what happens in your waking hours, so make sure to get those quality ZZZs. Aim for 7-9 hours each night, preferably at consistent times. 4. Exercise If you are physically capable, getting your body moving and your blood pumping is an almost guaranteed way to relieve tension. Physical activity pumps up your “feel-good” endorphins and refocuses your mind on your body’s movements, releasing stress and improving your mood. Physically, exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and can even regulate your sleep cycle by making it easier to fall (and stay) asleep. Virtually any physical activity works: walking, jogging, gardening, housecleaning, biking, swimming or anything else that gets you moving. Find time, even if it means asking someone else to provide care while you take a break. 5. Try Meditation Meditation creates a sense of calm, peace and balance that benefits both mind and body, and it encourages the use of breathing to get through stress. You’ll focus your attention on the sensations you experience, squeezing out anxious thoughts. The best part? You can meditate almost anywhere, from a doctor’s office to a bus ride. 6. Do a Little Coloring (Really!) Think coloring books are just for kids? Think again. Adult coloring books have become an increasingly popular way to decrease stress through mindfulness, the act of focusing on being in the present moment. Added bonus: they’re super portable! 7. Have a Healthy Dose of Laughter Did you know that laughter lightens your emotional load and actually causes physical changes in your body? Laughter enhances your oxygen intake, relieves mental stress and soothes physical tension. Try switching up the nightly news with a favorite comedian’s stand-up or a classic rom-com or call your funniest friend. And speaking of friends… 8. Get Social Spending quality time with friends and family has long been a stress relief tactic used across many cultures and time periods. When you spend time with your social circle, you experience better mental health, a stronger immune system and can even lower your risk of dementia! If you don’t have much time to meet up out of the house, or your friends and family are long-distance, don’t worry: video chatting and phone calls can provide many of the same positive effects as face-to-face socializing. 9. Start Journaling Putting your thoughts and feelings into written words can be a good release for pent-up emotions. Writing often provides perspective that thinking, or even talking, cannot always give. In addition to venting out your worries, journaling is also a good place to list out all the positives in your life that you’re grateful for. P.S. If you’re looking for a place to start, every CaringBridge site comes complete with a ready-to-use Journal feature. Our online journal allows you to choose from a variety of privacy options, whether you choose to publicly share your health journey or keep a totally private diary. It’s free and easy to use. Don’t go through your health journey alone. You can stay connected to friends and family, plan and coordinate meals, and experience love from any distance. All of this is ready for you when you start your personal CaringBridge site, which is completely free of charge, ad-free, private and secure. Don’t spend another minute alone! Start Your Free Site Now 10. Get a Pet Therapy animals are around for a reason. Our favorite furry friends provide many stress-relieving benefits when they cuddle us, learn a new trick or simply just look adorable. Whether you prefer a dog, cat, parakeet or fish, owning and loving a pet can be enormously beneficial. And if you’re thinking that you can’t take care of yet another thing, not to fear: these low-maintenance pets might change your mind. 11. Just Say ‘No’ Yep, you read that right. You are more than allowed to turn requests down if you feel that you’re getting overwhelmed with responsibilities and places you just have to be. When you say ‘no’ to adding another “to-do” on your list, you’re opening up an opportunity to have very important time for yourself. You are a priority, too! 12. Reclaim Your Identity Spending time on your passions will help remind you that you are more than a caregiver. Try to take time at least once a day to engage in an activity that makes you feel most like yourself outside of your caregiving role. It can feel like you don’t even have time to wash your face at the end of a long day, much less take 30 minutes to yourself. But there are opportunities to carve out you-time every single day. If you leave for work, use your lunch hour to go outside and read a book or magazine. If you stay home, take time to play your favorite music or make dinnertime exciting by cooking a fun, new recipe. It’s the little things that make us who we are and it’s important not to forget about them. 13. Prioritize Your Own Medical Needs Caregivers still have regular checkups and dentist appointments, just like anyone else. It can be easy to get so caught up in the medical treatment of your loved one that you forget that you actually share some of the same needs. Take note of any appointments you’ve missed or may need in the next few months, and if necessary, start enlisting help so that you can make your appointments without a hitch. Also, don’t forget about therapy. It might not be for everyone, but therapy is a tool that’s definitely worth considering. Many therapists specialize in the managing and relieving of stress through means such as Progressive Relaxation Training, mindfulness-based techniques and more. To find out about the different types of therapy and which one might be right for you, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and discuss getting a referral. 14. Ask for (and Accept) Help It’s ironic that the people who spend so much of their time and energy helping others often find it incredibly difficult to accept help themselves. Here’s what a couple caregivers said helped them with this: “Being open to help. Recognizing I couldn’t do everything, and letting others share their gifts of time, meals and service to us. And finding the courage in myself to be specific in telling them what was needed.” “Accepting help when it is offered! If you say no too many times, people will stop offering. Don’t feel guilty for taking some time for yourself. If you burn out, things will not be good for all involved!” Some other ideas on this: Make a to-do list and recruit others to pitch in to help with meal planning, trips to the pharmacy, walking the dog, watering plants… everything that goes with your caregiver role. Taking Care of the Caregiver Rosalynn Carter, prominent advocate of caregiving, famously stated that there are only four kinds of people in the world: Those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers. We hope these 14 tips not only help you manage the stress that comes along with supporting a loved one, but also serve as a reminder that you deserve the same amount of care that you give out every day. Caregiver Assistance and Support Groups AARP (1-888) 687-2277 Family Caregiver Alliance (1-800) 445-8106 Caregiver.com (954) 893-0550 Caregiver Action Network (202) 454-3970 Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (229) 928-1234 Well Spouse Association (1-800) 838-0879 Take a Caregiver Stress Test Taking a self-evaluation quiz can be yet another way to identify your level of stress. Try this free caregiver stress test to find out if your stress levels are normal, or if they’re becoming an issue. Start a CaringBridge Site CaringBridge is a nonprofit social network dedicated to helping family and friends communicate with and support loved ones during a health crisis through the use of free, personal websites. Could you or a loved one benefit from starting a CaringBridge site to keep family and friends informed and get the love, and support they need? Don’t go through your health journey alone. You can stay connected to friends and family, plan and coordinate meals, and experience love from any distance. All of this is ready for you when you start your personal CaringBridge site, which is completely free of charge, ad-free, private and secure. Don’t spend another minute alone! Start Your Free Site Now Please Share Your Favorite Stress-Relief Tips We’d love to find out how you relieve stress. You can tell us (and CaringBridge users everywhere) about any tips and techniques you’ve used successfully and what advice you’d give to other caregivers. Comment with your ideas and stories below.

Caregiving can be hard. Really hard. In fact, a 2021 survey by the national movement ARCHANGELS found that 44 percent of caregivers using CaringBridge rated themselves as “super-stressed.” Part of this stress can come from the emotional aspect of caregiving–feelings of guilt can creep up when you least expect them to. You may feel as if you’re not doing enough for your loved one. You may feel guilty for considering placing your loved one into a care facility. Or, you may feel guilt after your loved one has passed away. Caregiver guilt is completely normal. And, at the end of the day, it’s an emotion that highlights just how much you care. If you’re experiencing guilt, please know that your feelings are valid and that you are not alone in this. We’ve gathered some tips from real caregivers to help you cope and move forward. 1. Take Some Time for Self-Care In the hustle and bustle of caregiving, it’s easy to neglect yourself. You know what they say, though—you can’t pour from an empty cup. Take some time for yourself in the midst of your responsibilities. Self-care means different things for everyone. At its simplest, it can mean getting enough sleep at night and taking naps when you need them. It can also mean taking time for activities like reading, or yoga. If so, carve out a couple of hours to dig into a new book or visit your yoga studio. If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve compiled ways, some simple and some a bit more involved, to incorporate self-care into your life. Sometimes, you may feel like you don’t have one second for anything else in your day, or the energy to do these things even if you did. But self-care doesn’t have to mean taking a whole spa day. Instead, it can simply mean taking five minutes to stretch or sip your coffee on the front porch. The important thing is being intentional and doing something just for you. Self-care can also mean understanding your emotions and honoring them. If your guilt feels too heavy or if you’re experiencing burnout, consider asking a friend or family member to step into your role for a day or two so you can take a much-deserved break. For some caregivers, this is unfortunately not an option. But organizations like the nonprofit Family Caregiver Alliance offer state directories of licensed respite-care options. 2. Join a Support Group Sometimes, being a caregiver can feel a bit lonely. You may feel as if your friends or family just don’t understand how you feel. Joining a support group can help you connect with like-minded individuals who may be struggling with caregiver guilt too. “Join a support group. Priceless.” Kazia R. To find support groups in your area, you can do a quick Google search (or check out our roundup on caregiver support groups). Or, you can also join online caregiving support groups via social media platforms like Facebook. 3. Let it All Out Eventually, bottled up emotions have to go somewhere. Take some time to yourself to just let it all out. If you feel the need to cry, cry. If you want to write out your feelings, write them out. If you need to pray, pray. If you need to call a friend to vent, do it. In these times, it may be helpful to seek the support of a therapist who can give you the tools you need to cope. There are many options available today, depending on your needs. For example, you could try online talk therapy or do a search for therapists in your area. “Find a quiet place just for you if it’s only for 5 minutes. It’s alright to cry, it will relieve your tension. Learn how to release your stress, even if it’s only singing. Have a relishing with God and ask him to give you strength and courage to face everything. Believe me it helps.” Doris B. 4. Give Yourself Some Grace Pictured are Bernie and Leslie Goldblatt, whose story is part of the CaringBridge How We Heal Series. How you feel in this moment is just as important as how your loved one feels. Your wellness is a priority, too. “What you feel, no matter what it is, is valid. You need to realize that your feelings are just as important.” Erica M. The work you’re doing makes you a hero–even when it doesn’t feel like it–so consider giving yourself credit for all your hard work. Even when guilt arises, it doesn’t mean you’re not doing something incredible for your loved one. “I have been a caregiver several times over. You are there when most are not. You are their hero.” Jo J. Take some time today to consider just how amazing you are. If you need to, write some encouraging quotes on sticky notes and place them around your home or in your car. Whatever it takes to remind you that you matter, both inside your role as caregiver and outside of it. What’s Your Story? If you’re a caregiver, how do you cope with feelings of guilt or remorse? If you feel comfortable, consider sharing your stories and ideas in the comments below. You may just inspire someone to keep going through the heavy emotions of caregiving. Don’t Go Through Your Health Journey Alone You can stay connected to friends and family, plan and coordinate meals, and experience love from any distance. All of this is ready for you when you start your personal CaringBridge site, which is completely free of charge, ad-free, private and secure. Don’t spend another minute alone! Start Your Free Site Now

Being a caregiver is one of the most challenging roles anyone can take on. You are constantly giving to others. Far too often, you’re putting your needs on the back burner, and it can feel incredibly isolating. It’s perfectly normal to feel tired, frustrated, and overwhelmed. This caregiver self-care checklist isn’t about adding more to your plate. Instead, it offers small ways for you to feel a bit more heard, validated, and cared for in your daily life. Some of these may not be possible for you or may not provide the relief you need, and that’s okay. Take only the ones that work for you. Remember, even small steps can make a big difference. Your well-being matters just as much as that of the person for whom you’re caring. 1. Give yourself space to vent Sometimes, you just need to let it all out. Whether it’s yelling into a pillow, crying in the shower, or venting to a trusted friend, moments of release are all a form of self-care. If writing helps you process, consider creating a personal CaringBridge to share your thoughts and experiences with your support system. Whether you’re seeking advice or writing to vent, it’s a safe space where you can be honest about what you’re going through. Bottling up your emotions can lead to more stress. Letting go, even just a little, can make you feel lighter and more in control. Your feelings are valid, and it’s okay to express them in ways that feel right to you. 2. Delegate tasks to friends and family We know it’s not always possible to delegate tasks. This is especially true when family members live far away or when you don’t have many close friends. But help is sometimes just a click away. Use CaringBridge to let others know exactly what you need, whether it’s meal delivery, grocery shopping, or financial support through GoFundMe. Clear, specific requests can make it easier for others to lend a hand, even from a distance or as an anonymous donor. Don’t be afraid to ask for exactly what you need. People often want to help but don’t know how. Delegating to others may sound like just another task, but it can provide relief in many ways. Using shareable lists can help people see what’s already taken care of and what still needs to be done, removing some of the communications and logistics from your plate. You don’t have to do everything alone. When possible, sharing the load can make a big difference in your daily life. 3. Let yourself daydream It’s perfectly normal to fantasize about better scenarios. Try not to feel guilty about escaping into daydreams—they can provide a mental break from the stresses of constant caregiving. Imagining yourself on a peaceful beach or living a different life for a moment can be a soothing way to cope. Daydreaming can offer a brief respite and help recharge your mental batteries. It’s a harmless way to find a bit of joy and hope amid challenging times. Allow your mind to wander, and find comfort in these small escapes. 4. Lean into sarcasm and humor An important addition to your caregiver self-care checklist is humor. Humor and sarcasm can be powerful tools for stress relief, when appropriate. It’s okay to find moments of laughter even in tough situations. Sharing a funny story or a sarcastic comment with a friend or fellow caretaker might help you feel better, even if just for a while. Don’t feel bad about finding humor in difficult moments; it’s a natural coping mechanism. A good laugh can be incredibly refreshing and provide a much-needed mental break. Those who aren’t caretakers may not fully understand or appreciate the humor, and that’s okay. If it helps you, then it’s good self-care. Acknowledging and expressing dark humor can also be a liberating way to process all the other emotions that come along with caregiving. Let humor be your ally, helping you navigate the rough patches of your journey. 5. Let yourself indulge While staying healthy is important, sometimes you just need to treat yourself. It’s okay to enjoy that piece of cake or to grab a burger from the drive-thru. Don’t feel bad if you need to spend a night watching television or just be “lazy.” Indulgences can provide comfort and a small sense of normalcy when life feels anything but normal. These moments of enjoyment can be little bursts of happiness in your day. Don’t feel guilty for wanting something that makes you feel good. Embrace these treats as small acts of kindness to yourself. 6. Be honest with people It can be exhausting to fake emotions or hide your true feelings. When you’re with caring people, try to be honest with them about what you’re experiencing. Letting people know how you’re really doing can lift some of the burden of pretending and might even bring some much-needed support. Honesty can foster deeper connections with those around you. It can also help others understand your situation better. When they really know what you’re going through, they can offer more meaningful help instead of saying vague “let me know what I can do” statements. Remember, you don’t have to sugarcoat your reality for anyone. 7. Break the tension with movement While the time and energy for a full-blown exercise routine may be difficult when you’re caretaking, try focusing on small bursts of movement to break up the tension in your body. A quick dance session, a few yoga poses, or simply unclenching your jaw can help. These tiny actions can make a big difference in how you feel. Moving your body, even for a few seconds, can release built-up stress. It can be as simple as stretching your arms or taking a few deep breaths. Little movements can refresh your mind and body, giving you a brief but valuable reset. 8. Talk with other family caregivers Connecting with other family caregivers can provide a sense of community and understanding. In just a few minutes, you can find a caregiver support group online or in person that’s filled with people in situations similar to yours. Sharing your story and hearing the stories of others can help you feel more supported. You might find new coping strategies and insights from others, and knowing you’re not alone can make the caregiving journey a bit easier. 9. Look for moments of peace In the chaos of caregiving, finding even small moments of peace can be a lifeline. These moments can be as simple as sipping a cup of tea in silence or taking a few deep breaths while sitting outside. Allow yourself these tiny breaks to recharge and regroup. Texts, phone calls, and forms can all wait an extra few seconds before being addressed. It’s okay to seek out these quiet moments; they’re essential for your mental health. 10. Stay connected with your loved ones Staying connected with your loved ones, even from a distance, can provide emotional support and comfort. A quick video call, a heartfelt text, or sharing photos can help bridge the gap and remind you that you’re not alone. These connections can offer encouragement and a sense of normalcy amid your daily challenges. Don’t hesitate to reach out and let others into your world. Lean on them when you need to; they can help lighten your load. 11. Celebrate small wins In the caregiving journey, it’s important to celebrate the small wins. Whether it’s a day where everything went smoothly or a moment of laughter, acknowledge and appreciate these positives. Celebrating small successes can boost your morale and provide much-needed motivation. Take pride in these moments—they matter more than you might realize. How to recognize caregiver burnout Caregiver burnout is a real and serious issue, even among those caring for their spouses. It’s important to recognize the signs, such as feeling overwhelmed, being constantly fatigued, or losing interest in activities you once enjoyed. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to seek additional support in order to recognize and manage your burnout. This support can come in many forms, from therapy and counseling to seeing your primary care provider to check up on your physical wellbeing. Ignoring burnout is not a solution. Over time, burnout can lead to severe physical and emotional health issues. It’s crucial to address these feelings early and find ways to manage them. Always remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. What’s your story? Every caregiver’s journey is unique, and sharing your story can be incredibly powerful for you and for others. Whether it’s a tip that’s helped you or an experience that others might relate to, we’d love to hear from you. Please leave your stories and your own caregiver self-care checklist in the comments below. Your voice matters, and your experiences can help others feel less alone. Your insights might provide the exact support someone else needs. Remember, being a caregiver is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s essential for you to care for yourself along the way. You deserve compassion, kindness, and support just as much as the person you’re caring for. We look forward to hearing from you and learning about your journey.

As a member of the sandwich generation, you may be taking care of both your parents and your children at the same time. This position might lead you to feel like you’re not doing enough, or are overloaded with stress. But let us tell you: you’re doing an amazing job. You’re only one person and the fact that you keep pushing forward shows how caring you are. We want you to know you’re not alone. To help support you, we’ve gathered some heartfelt stress-managing tips from other sandwich generation caregivers. 1. Building a Strong Support System Pictured above is the O’Donnell family and loved ones, whose story is part of the CaringBridge How We Heal Series. It’s okay to ask for help. After all, it’s rare for someone to go through life doing absolutely everything by themselves. Receiving support is just as important as giving it. If you’re struggling with taking care of your older and younger folks, reach out to your friends and family. Tap your community’s resources, like your local church, food shelter and cleaning services. Use social media and caregiver support groups to receive support and get helpful recommendations. There’s so much help out there for you. Taking the first step of reaching out may feel difficult, but it will help to take some of the weight off your shoulders knowing that others have your back no matter what. “Build a great, solid support system of friends for not only yourself but your children who will undoubtedly be affected as well. Friends/family/therapy if necessary. Church, if that’s your belief system.” Tawny P. “Make use of community and government resources—meals on wheels, senior advocates, meal services. Ask for help from your church.” Chris C.N. 2. Don’t Discount What Others Can Do Pictured above is Cyteria Knight and her rescue dog Halo. Cyteria’s story is part of the CaringBridge How We Heal Series. Sometimes you might feel like you’re the only one who can take care of everything. Consider taking a step back and seeing what others are truly capable of doing, including those you’re taking care of. Your children may be able to take out the trash or dust your bookshelves. Your parents might be able to do certain things on their own, like making their own lunch. It depends on your particular situation, but it can be worth taking a look to see where your load can be lightened, even in the smallest ways. And don’t forget your support system. If someone wants to help run errands, prep meals or simply babysit for an evening, take them up on their offer. “Don’t discount what others are able to do. Let the kids and parents do as much for themselves as possible, matching socks, folding towels, etc. Also never discount help that others may offer. Offers for help don’t come often so take advantage of them when they do. I have learned that things can be done differently from how I would do them and still not be wrong. God bless you!” Karen C. 3. Keep Priorities Organized One of the best things you can do when you’re caring for multiple people is to stay organized. This can look like listing out tasks and delegating them to loved ones who are willing to lend a hand. One easy and free way to organize support is by using the CaringBridge Planner. Here you can post tasks and errands and even request rides from your loved ones. Simply enter the tasks, choose the date you want it done, and send the site to your friends and family. They can go on the site and sign up to help right in the planner. It’s a simple, uncomplicated way to coordinate support and can take a huge load off your shoulders. “Delegate as much as you can to preserve your own health!” Edith P. “Make time to prioritize each family member and start with yourself. It isn’t easy but necessary for survival and thriving.” Dana H. 4. Set Aside Time For Yourself Pictured above is Claire Schwab, whose family story is part of the CaringBridge How We Heal Series. We’ve all heard about the importance of self-care, but what does it actually look like for the sandwich generation? Take some time to think about it. Maybe you enjoy taking walks or lying down and meditating. It could be having 15 minutes in the morning to complete a skincare routine, or taking an hour to do a favorite hobby like gardening or drawing. Whatever self-care means for you, set aside time to do it, even if it’s in short bursts throughout the day. Remind yourself that you’re worth taking care of and that you deserve that time. It’s also important to remember that by taking care of yourself, you are able to better care for others. Setting aside regular time for self-care will help reduce stress and replenish your energy. “Depend on others to give you ‘me’ time when you feel burnt out or overwhelmed! Someone to take the kids for a movie and someone to spend time with a parent for you to take a break. You are very important and you must still have self-care and love to be there for others around you!” Tracy Ann B. “Remember to take care of yourself, even if just a few minutes a day. And yes, build support through people and research resources who offer support.” Patricia T. “Set time for yourself and stick to it. I took care of my mom for 11 years who was extremely demanding, and I worked as a special education director. Now I realize I had the right to save my time and tears and all, I should have said I am sorry but! Total burn out.” Georgia F. ‘ 5. Stay Engaged With Hobbies & Interests What brings you joy? Do you like to scrapbook or paddleboard? Maybe you love astronomy podcasts or reading crime mystery novels. Whatever your favorite pastimes are, don’t let go of them. Caregiving is incredibly challenging, and hobbies give us something to look forward to. When you have a busy schedule ahead of you, it can be comforting to know that later that day you’ll have some time to do something you love. Our interests and hobbies are also a major part of who we are, and they deserve our attention. When we don’t hang onto them, we lose a very important part of what brings us joy. So know that, no matter how small a hobby seems, it’s worth your time. “As hard as it is…find a hobby or something you enjoy and DON’T give up on it…read, write, photograph, hike, whatever that may be that brings you joy just for YOU!” Tawny P. 6. Take Photos & Enjoy the Small Moments Pictured above is Judy and Jaxson Martinez, whose story is part of the CaringBridge How We Heal Series. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed by all the day-to-day responsibilities, but that can make you miss out on enjoying the small moments. This could be crayon drawings by your children, giggles during dinnertime or your parents giving you a hug. Whatever it may be, take a moment to celebrate those small treasures. Have your phone handy to take photos and videos of moments you want to remember. Years down the road, you’ll be grateful you took that time. “Take LOTS of pictures. You will regret it if you don’t. This time is crazy and stressful and some days you will absolutely hate being in this position, but one day you will look back on this time and be thankful you were there in the hard moments to comfort your parents and hopefully help bring them joy by watching their grandchildren grow.” Tawny P. “You just do the best you can and be honored that the Lord has blessed you with your parents and family. Some days you just muddle through.” Suda S. “Having been there l know the blessings far outweigh the challenges.” Sharon M.S. How Do You Stay Present? Pictured above is Nic Ndegwa and son, whose story is part of the CaringBridge How We Heal Series. One of your biggest gifts is your giant heart. You take care of others because you’re a compassionate and generous person. While taking care of others can be a loving and rewarding experience, the stress of it can make you miss out on important moments. That’s why it’s important to stay present whenever you can. If you have suggestions on how to stay in the moment, we’d love to hear from you. Your ideas could help someone going through a time of sandwich caregiving and inspire them to keep going. Don’t Go Through Your Health Journey Alone You can stay connected to friends and family, plan and coordinate meals, and experience love from any distance. All of this is ready for you when you start your personal CaringBridge site, which is completely free of charge, ad-free, private and secure. Don’t spend another minute alone! Start Your Free Site Now

Everyone knows providing care for someone is a thankless, rewarding, tiresome, uplifting, roller coaster – filled with many twists and turns along the way. Fortunately, for those who experience caregiving in some way, many books for caregivers exist to inform and assist you with various elements of the process. Whether you are providing direct care or someone who knows a caregiver, there are so many helpful books on the topic of caregiving to guide you. Here are five books that provide insight and perspective into the world of caregiving. 5 Books for Caregivers The Caregiver’s Challenge: Living, Loving, Letting Go By Maryann Schacht, PsychotherapistA survival guide and road map to the caregiver role. Schacht chronicles her own experience caring for her terminally ill husband and candidly exploring how terminal illness affects personal relationships. This book for caregivers entails simple steps and exercises to manage pain, consolidating one’s emotional as well as physical resources, and stay true to one’s bonds despite the perilous journey ahead. A highly recommended primer, written especially for caregivers but filled with crucial wisdom for anyone confronting the protracted loss of a loved one. The Fearless Caregiver: How to Get the Best Care for Your Loved One and Still Have a Life of Your Own By Greg BargThis book clearly defines your vital role in developing your loved one’s care plan. It teaches you how to deal successfully with managed care organizations or home health services, and arms you with the knowledge and skills you need. The book covers topics such as deciding if your loved one’s care is appropriate, if your doctor is the right one or if something more is needed. From wills and powers-of-attorney, to practical tips for dealing with disabilities, to long term care options, to battling stress and depression – this book provides a simplified guide to the caregiver process. Daily Comforts for Caregivers By Pat SamplesFor those who feel overwhelmed by the day-to-day struggles of caregiving, this charming little book offers gentle guidance and support. Beyond all their usual personal and family demands, caregivers must take on the special responsibility of caring for family members or others with long-term health problems. With 366 days’ worth of wisdom and affirmations, Daily Comforts addresses one caregiving issue per day. An index of topics allows caregivers to find the readings most pertinent to their immediate concerns. Be the Noodle: Fifty Ways to be a Compassionate, Courageous, Crazy-Good Caregiver By Lois KellyPart love story, part how-to manual, part memoir, Be The Noodle shows readers how to find superpowers they never knew that had. The book covers how to stay sane, take comfort in sick humor, find compassion and become a crazy-good caregiver. It’s one of the most courageous jobs most of us never wanted or were never trained to do. The Cancer Poetry Project 2: More Poems by Cancer Patients and Those Who Love Them Edited by Karin B. MillerThe Cancer Poetry Project 2 drew more than 1,000 submissions. From widely published poets to first-time poets and many poets in between, the authors let us know we’re not alone in dealing with cancer. The resulting anthology features the best 140 poems, plus the story and the people behind each. Men, women and children, all walks of life, all types of cancer experiences fill the pages. This anthology allows readers to find comfort, understanding and much more in just four chapters. Bonus: God Will Carry You Through By Max LucadoPopular author and Pastor Max Lucado has discovered that everyone has a point in their lives that they must handle a serious event. Whether the loss of a loved one, marriage issues, illness, job loss or the stress of everyday life, people everywhere need the assurance that they will make it through. Using both scripture and personal testimonials as vehicles to deliver the messages to the readers, this book is rich in hope for finding peace and reassurance through whatever challenges you face.