Becoming discouraged enough to call it depression isn’t uncommon for caregivers. Sometimes it’s difficult to see the rewards of caregiving in the day-to-day activities and frustrations.

Caregivers need to take care of themselves for their own physical and mental health. It’s often difficult to find time for yourself but you need to do this instead of becoming a martyr.

Here are 13 suggestions.  You may have others that help you in times of stress.

1.  Find a time to read a relaxing book
2.  Watch a movie
3.  Take a walk
4.  Find a friend, relative, or professional to spend an hour or two to enable you to escape for a few hours
5.  Learn a craft or art; perhaps the Alzheimer’s patient will become involved, too.
6.  Write down family stories you family member relates
7.  Go out to lunch with a friend or your spouse
8.  Keep your sense of humor.
9.  Write or read poetry
10. Read your Bible or other religious book for inspiration
11. Develop an exercise routine, if only for 10-15 minutes
12. Find a support group
13.  Laugh, love and learn from the experience

What do you do?  Share your depression beaters.

(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen

Related Post:

13 Random Thoughts About Alzheimer’s

Post from: Blisstree

Thursday Thirteen – 13 Ways to Alleviate Caregiver’s Depression