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Self-Care Strategy: Connecting with Others

Feeling overwhelmed as a caregiver? Learn how connecting with other caregivers can provide a safe space where you can be seen, heard and encouraged.

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Often, we go into caregiving feeling empowered and enthusiastic. However, as time goes on, the role may intensify and become overwhelming. Especially when going through more difficult seasons of caregiving, one of the best things you can do to care for yourself is to connect with others in a similar life stage.

Find Strength in Shared Stories

If you spend time with other caregivers, you’ll find that you don’t have to explain yourself as much. You can take a deep breath – they already “get” you. They understand where you’re coming from and can empathize on a deep level. This allows you to feel connection and find encouragement through similar caregiving experiences.

Be Yourself in a Safe Space

Emotions can run deep for caregivers, especially when caregiving for a loved one over a long period of time. Depending on dynamics with your family, it might be most helpful for you to connect with individuals outside of your family and caregiving situation. This will allow you to embrace a safe space and truly let your guard down while being transparent with others.

Grow in Confidence

Caregiving can make you feel invisible, which can harm your self-confidence. If you feel this way while reading this today, you’re not alone. Connecting with a support group can allow you to feel seen, heard and validated as a caregiver. When you feel like there are other people feeling and experiencing similar things, your confidence will begin to grow. As your confidence increases, you’ll be able to reconnect with aspects of your life outside of caregiving, including people and other hobbies – boosting your overall wellbeing.

Get Connected

We want to encourage you to explore the different opportunities below – or search for similar offerings in your local area. Find a way to connect with others that feels comfortable to you and allows you to receive support. Most likely, your presence can offer encouragement to a fellow caregiver in addition to the encouragement you receive.