When you have a lot on your plate, taking care of yourself can be the last thing on your mind.
Taking time for yourself when caring for someone with a disability might make you feel guilty, especially when balancing work or other family obligations.
Taking care of your mental and physical health, on the other hand, will improve your general wellbeing and make it easier to care for others.
Good health and wellbeing.
Incorporate the four healthy lifestyle components listed below into your daily routine.
1. Be active.
Every day, try to engage in some form of physical activity or exercise that you enjoy. For example, if attending a class or joining a group proves difficult, take a walk around the block or visit the park with your pet.
2. Eat right.
When you’re on the go, it’s easy to fall into the habit of missing meals, nibbling, or overeating, but your body runs on the fuel you give it.
Takeout and fast food are enticing because they are quick and convenient, but they are ineffective in meeting long-term energy needs. The first step to eating right is to become aware of your habits and identify areas where you want to improve. This could mean having a more balanced diet or cutting down on processed foods, sweets, or alcohol consumption.
3. Make sure you get enough rest.
It’s easy to overlook the importance of having a good night’s sleep for energy and overall health.
Before going to bed, take some time to relax (a hot shower, a cup of herbal tea, some simple stretching), make sure your room is at a comfortable temperature, and limit your screen time.
4. Take a walk outside.
Being in nature has been shown to relieve stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and boost one’s spirits. Spend time in a green environment (a park or a community garden), take a walk on the beach, or order a cup of coffee to go.
Mental wellbeing
We don’t typically consider mental health a concern, yet it’s just as vital to look after our minds as it is to eat well and get enough sleep. In addition, caring for someone else can be exhausting and emotionally draining, so it’s even more critical to look after your own emotional wellbeing.
Here are a few mental health techniques to consider:
- Create a support system of caring family and friends with whom you can communicate and connect.
- Join a Facebook page or an online group of like-minded people or fellow caretakers.
- Join a community support group to connect with people going through the same thing.
- Use mindfulness or meditation to help you relax. Short exercises can be done anywhere, at any time, with free applications like Smiling Mind, Calm, and Headspace.
- Seek expert assistance. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, upset, or depressed, having access to a professional counsellor or psychologist can make a huge difference. They can assist you in reducing exhaustion by giving you measures to increase your capacity to deal with stressful situations.
Respite care or Short term accommodation
Taking a break from caring is essential for taking care of yourself and ensuring that you can continue to care for others in the long run.
Breaks or respite might be a few hours, a day, one night, a weekend, or even longer. In the Assistance with Daily Life budget, respite care is covered under Short-term accommodation and assistance (incl. respite).
- Alleviates stress for you and your family
- Relieves frustration and weariness
- Allows you to spend time with your family, friends, and community
- Improves your relationship with the person you’re looking after
- Allows the individual you’re looking after to socialise with others
Be kind to yourself
Most importantly, remember to be kind to yourself and seek help when you need it.
Are you looking for a short break away from home and the daily routines?
Short-term accommodation is a fantastic way for individuals with disabilities to enjoy a mini getaway or a holiday while also giving their families and caregivers respite, a break and time for other tasks.
Our team at Personalised Support Services has a lot of experience assisting people with complex support needs. So you will feel confident and safe in our stays.
For more information about Short-term accommodation, contact us today!
