Great to be back blogging about Alzheimer’s and reaching out to caregivers. I got all caught up in getting my book out, speaking engagements, marketing, and the list goes on, that I forgot I had a life and there were other things that were also important to me. Just like what happens when we are caregivers and forget about ourselves; a very dangerous thing to do. Don’t get me wrong, I love working on my book and one of the most recent things I am doing is serving as a Caregiver Connection Ambassador for The Caregiver Connection. If you are not familiar with this wonderful online group, goggle The Caregiver Connection, and learn more, while enjoying their many services available to all caregivers.
But back to you. It is so easy to be overwhelmed with caregiver responsibilities, that you forget about yourself. Ironic isn’t it, as in order to take care of someone, the first thing you have to do is take care of yourself. You can start slowly by carving out small pieces – maybe just minutes in the beginning – for just you, working up to lunch out with a friend, or a trip to the library. Whatever it is that connects you back to yourself. Create a Just for You, You Cave. Why not…men do it with their man caves. My “you cave” was my closet where I would go and hide and deep breathe, even if only for two minutes. Ask others for help, so you can get out or be alone for a short period. Disconnect from your phone, every now and them, let the house be messy and take care of it another time. You need to start small, but it so important that you take care of yourself. We are often called the “hidden or 2nd victim” because the focus is always on the one that is ill. Sometimes you maybe the ONLY person who can put the focus back on you. This is not selfish, this is saving you.
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