As a caregiver, you might be thinking about all you have to do, but you may not be thinking about your own health and your own needs along the way. You may be surprised to learn that the most important thing you can do as a caregiver is to take care of yourself. The following chapters from The Caregiver’s Companion book provide tips to help you understand and cope with the challenges and feelings that come with being a caregiver:
Introduction
download PDF related resources
Welcome to The Caregiver's Companion for caregivers of BMT patients. This guide is designed to help you build upon your already existing strengths and help you develop new ones as you take on the role of caregiver.
Coping with Emotions
download PDF related resources
In this chapter, you will learn:
- How to understand common thoughts and feelings
- What to do when you’re not coping as well as you could be
- How to channel your emotions
Communication
download PDF related resources
In this chapter, you will learn:
- How to choose the best words to get the best results
- How to communicate in specific situations such as with health care professionals, pharmacists, and family and friends
- How to connect with your loved one
Social Support
download PDF related resources
In this chapter, you will learn:
- How to accept help with grace
- 5 steps to getting the help you need most
- How to be ready when friends offer to help
- How to stay connected to those closest to you
Physical Health
download PDF related resources
In this chapter, you will learn:
- Easy stretches you can do anywhere
- Simple ways to add more walking into your day
- How to make healthy choices even when time is short
Relax and Recharge
download PDF related resources
In this chapter, you will learn:
- How to understand what triggers your stress
- Simple relaxation techniques to lower your stress
- How to carve out personal time
Peace and Positives
download PDF related resources
In this chapter, you will learn:
- How to keep in touch with your own identity
- Ways to explore meaning
- How to create positive moments and memories