Our Ask An Angel correspondent is Arlene Petersen, Certified Senior Advisor and Life Care Navigation Specialist in the area of senior home care.
Q. With the holidays here, I am feeling burned out. I care for my parents and I have my own health issues to worry about. How do I find relief?
A. Stress and strain can be a normal part of our everyday living. In many caregiving situations it is hard to find relief. It’s important to keep check of how you are feeling, and I am glad to see that you have recognized the feeling of burnout.
Some other signs of “burnout” include feeling depressed, constant fatigue, lack of interest in work or life in general, lack of interest in socializing, increased alcohol use, increased worry, lack of appetite, or a general feeling of helplessness. These feelings can sneak up on many people and it is important to recognize them.
The good news is that there is help to combat burnout. As a caregiver, your life must be tended to, like a garden. It has to be cared for.
So, think about the people in your life that can help you. If your circle of friends is limited, search for support in your community. Social services are available through many non-profits in the Kane and McHenry county areas. Your church may also have a support group.
On a different level, though, it is important that you take care of yourself by doing some simple things. Exercise, have a quiet time, eat healthy, and stay active.
A professional caregiver can also provide respite if you feel uncomfortable leaning on family or friends. One hour to yourself can give your mind and body rejuvenation. In any case, continue on a realistic path and monitor how you feel and take the proper steps to take care of yourself.
Have a question for our angel correspondent? You can send our angel an email to apetersen@visitingangels.com or send your question via mail to Ask An Angel, 65 Woodbury St., South Elgin, IL 60177.
