Are you someone who is a caretaker for a loved one? If so, this one is for you.
You well know this can be a very challenging situation. There are so many emotions involved:
Fear of the unknown, pending loss, emotional & financial strain.
Overwhelmed by the responsibilities involved, and then additional guilt for feeling overwhelmed.
Resentment that you’re in this situation in the first place.
You’re likely sad about the pain & suffering your loved one is enduring.
Angry at the unfairness of it all,
Powerless to do much about it,
Anxious about your future,
And lonely because as much as they try, no one else understands or ‘gets it.’
And again, there’s a constant undercurrent of resentment- that these were the cards you were dealt, this is your lot in life.
No wonder you withdraw from others, avoid discussing what’s happening & are exhausted, especially if you think you need to be strong for everyone else.
Beyond stressed, heading nose-first into burnout, you’re just waiting to snap & really lose it any second now.
But where you choose to focus will help you feel better.
If you want to feel empowered, look to see what you can control, what choices you have agency over, even if it’s your own health & well-being.
If you want to feel gratitude, look for the little things to be grateful for, spend some time in that gratitude, and soak it in (similar to how a sponge absorbs water).
If you want to feel courage, focus on the brave things you’re doing right now.
If you want to feel joy, focus on the present moment & find joy in little things- the sun’s rays shining through the window or the sound of Robin’s chirping.
These better-feeling emotions don’t change the circumstances of your loved one’s illness, but they will help you to feel better and more empowered while you navigate these challenges.
If you want to learn how to feel better, even while facing difficult life circumstances, I can help you– book a consultation to discuss how.
Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health Whitefish employees get free coaching sessions. You can book an in-person coaching session here or a remote/Zoom coaching session here.