Caring for someone we love can be one of the most rewarding - and challenging - things we ever do. Being in a committed relationship, having friends, and raising children rank up there too. How do you manage all of it and stay true to yourself?
It is important to not get isolated and at the same time, it is important to carve out time for yourself. Balance is the key. And my favorite quote helps keep it all in perspective:
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How do you find your balance while doing so many different things for others? Balancing all the different relationships in our lives is not easy. Unaware, we treat each relationship differently. The relationship between you and your parents might be handled differently than the relationships between you and friends, a spouse, or other relatives.
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One of the hardest parts of being a full-time caregiver is the sheer "constant-ness" of it all. You have so much to do - especially if there are multiple doctor appointments, pharmacy runs, and children of your own. When is there time for friends? Between 40-70 percent of caregivers, when polled, will claim experiencing symptoms of clinical depression. These symptoms can be caused by the lonliness and lack of balance in the caregiving situation.
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One of the ways we relate to others is through activities. Often it is difficult to find fun things to do with someone who is often ill and restricted or confined physically. But, with some imagination and these ideas to start you off, you can find meaningful ways to connect with someone you love in a new way. New activities can bring something fresh to your relationship and open up new avenues for conversation.
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