Research tells us that it is really very important for a carer or family member to look after themselves while they are looking after another person. Yet, the research also says that people really struggle to do this. People feel guilty or that they don’t have the time for “self-care”. However, caring for ourselves while we are supporting a person with a brain tumour has far-reaching healthy impacts for ourselves, the person we care for and the relationships we are in. There are simple techniques and ideas provided in this section that can help reduce carer stress and ill-health.
Judi shares her experience of self-care as a carer and the importance of balancing social relationships.
Remember
Making sure our own needs are met is as important as taking care of those we love most. When turning your attention toward yourself feels challenging, there are simple ways to move through the discomfort. Engaging in a self-care routine has been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, improve concentration, minimise frustration and anger, increase happiness, improve energy, and more