Six Tips for Caregivers for Relief from the Holiday Blues

Many people suffer from the blues during the wintertime. With the shorter days and a lack of sunlight in some areas, people who are prone to seasonal depression may feel down this time of year. The holidays bring on additional stress, which can lead to more bad days if you are chasing the idea of a “perfect” holiday season.

Caregivers may feel even more stress this time of year. Between the duties of caring for someone else, as well as taking time to enjoy the holidays yourself, many caregivers may go through periods of sadness simply because they feel as though they are failing.

Social media paints a distorted picture of perfection, but it may still be hard to distinguish reality from perceived perfection, which can lead to even more pressure to do better than you are doing. If you’re a caregiver who is feeling the blues this time of year, here are some tips for you.

Consider Your Mental Health First

If you usually feel some depression this time of year, take the time you need to speak with someone about how you can overcome your sadness before it becomes overwhelming. Look for a therapist you can trust, and prioritize your own mental health above any holiday activities.

Set Boundaries

This is the hardest thing for caregivers to do, but also the most important. You must set boundaries with the people in your life. Maybe that means saying “no” to another holiday party, or asking that someone not stop by if it means you have to entertain when you are exhausted. As someone who is regularly caring for others, it may not feel normal to say no, but it’s important to make sure you are putting your own needs and the needs of your loved one first.

Simplify Your Schedule

Similar to setting boundaries, it may be a good idea to simplify your holiday routine. If rushing around and constant entertaining is causing you too much stress, then only choose to do activities that will give you and your loved one joy. This may mean that you will miss out on certain activities, but the extra time to yourself may be the answer to finding your happiness.

Use Music or Soothing Lights in the Home

Using music to calm the holiday commotion may be just the cure to create a bit of happiness in the home. Music and soft lighting can have calming effects, which may be necessary after a day of holiday events. Let your loved one choose the music if you feel that it would cheer them up, or pick out the tunes that put you in a good mood. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your time together while still taking a moment to celebrate the season.

Consider Meditation and Yoga

Now may be a good time to consider a New Years resolution. Have you tried yoga or meditation before? These two activities have been known to reduce stress and create a calmer mindset any time of the year, but may be extra helpful if you’re feeling a little down. Clear your mind, and consider it “me time.” It’s important to practice self-care, and these activities may be your best bet for getting back on track. Perhaps you can continue them into the New Year!

Let Go and Ask for Help

Sometimes, simply letting go of the idea that you have to be perfect can create a more realistic expectation of yourself and your holiday season. Let go of the need to please everyone and the need to be everywhere. Let go of the idea that you aren’t a good caregiver to your loved one even though you are doing everything you can with love for them. There is freedom in letting go.

At the end of the day, it’s ok to ask for help. Your friends and family may want to help you, but they don’t know how. Sometimes, all you have to do is ask! It’s amazing how much help you may be able to receive if you simply reach out and ask for it. If you don’t feel comfortable asking friends and family for a helping hand, contact us at 24/7 Nursing Care. We have a network of professional caregivers who can give you some relief over the holidays by caring for your loved one in the comfort of their own home.

References:

10 Tips for Coping with Caregiving Blues during the Holidays. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.eldercarelink.com/Other-Resources/Caregiving-Support/10-tips-for-coping-with-caregiving-blues-during-holidays.htm