Caring for the elderly is an extremely important and responsible task, but at the same time it can be mentally and physically exhausting. Many babysitters experience chronic stress, fatigue and burnout, which can lead to health problems and a reduction in the quality of life. How to deal with these challenges and where to look for support?
Why caregivers are exposed to stress and burnout?
The daily work of the guardian is associated with many difficult emotions and challenges. The most common stressful factors are:
- High responsibility - Carers often care about the health and life of the pupils, which can be mentally burdensome.
- Lack of time for yourself - work in a shift system or 24 -hour care limits resting possibilities.
- Crisis situations - the need to respond to a sudden deterioration of the health of the mentee.
- Emotional commitment - A strong bond with an elderly person can lead to emotional overload, Especially in the case of her illness or death.
- Social isolation - many carers experience a sense of loneliness, Especially if they work abroad.
Lack of adequate support and coping with stress can lead to burnout - a state of physical exhaustion, emotional and mental, which negatively affects the health and quality of the guardian's work.
Techniques of dealing with stress and burnout
1. Conscious care for physical and mental health
- Dream and rest - Lack of regeneration leads to chronic fatigue. It is worth taking care of the minimum 7 sleep hours a day.
- Healthy diet - proper nutrition helps in maintaining energy and resistance of the body.
- Physical activity - even 20 A minute of walking a day can help reduce stress.
2. Relaxation techniques
- Breathing exercises - simple breathing techniques, such as deep breathing, help reduce stress levels.
- Meditation and mindfulness - Focusing at the moment allows you to break away from negative thoughts.
- Progressive muscle relaxation - a method of gradual tension and loosening of individual muscle groups.
3. Setting boundaries and time management
- Learning assertiveness - The ability to say no "and determining realistic expectations helps to avoid overloading duties.
- Day planning - Determining priorities and division of duties helps reduce the feeling of chaos and overload.
- Delegating tasks - If possible, It is worth sharing responsibilities with the family's family or other carers.
4. Building social support
- Conversations with loved ones - sharing emotions and experiences can help reduce tension.
- Support groups - Regular meetings with people in a similar situation give the opportunity to exchange experiences and feelings, that you are not alone.
- Contact with a psychologist - Professional psychological help can help deal with difficult emotions and stress.
Support groups and resources available for carers
1. Online support groups and internet forums
Many babysitters use online and Facebook groups, where they can exchange experiences, advice and get emotional support. Examples of groups are:
- Carers of the elderly - support and advice
- Senior Guardians Forum
2. Organizations and foundations for supporting guardians
There are organizations in Poland and abroad offering psychological assistance, Training and counseling for guardians, np.:
- Association of Carers of the Elderly - an organization offering webinars, Educational materials and consultations.
- Caritas Poland - supports people dealing with the care of seniors.
- Alzheimer Polska - an organization providing support to people who have been sick with dementia.
3. Telephone and online support lines
In crisis situations, you can use telephone support lines, which offer talks with psychologists and advisers. Examples:
- Trust phone for guardians - a special line for people dealing with seniors.
- Support phone for carers of people with dementia - helpline for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
4. Training and courses for guardians
Some organizations offer trainings that help you deal with difficult situations at the guardian's work. Training includes, among others:
- Techniques of coping with stress
- How to avoid burnout?
- Communication with the elderly
Summary
The work of a guardian is a huge responsibility, But it does not have to be associated with chronic stress and burnout. It is important to, To take care of your mental and physical health, use stress reducing techniques and look for support among loved ones, support groups and professional organizations. Guardians, who care about themselves, They are able to provide their pupils with better care and derive satisfaction from the work performed.
If you are a guardian and feel, that stress begins to overwhelm you, Don't be afraid to reach for help. You have the right to rest, support and caring for your own health.
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