Cancer Caregivers, Take Care of Yourself

By Sheryl M. Ness, RN

If you’re a caregiver for a person who is going through cancer treatment, you’re probably giving your all to them as they endure it.

It’s so essential for the person living with cancer to take the time to heal their body and recover. However, if you’re the caregiver, it’s also important to take care of yourself.

Taking care of yourself includes nurturing both your mind and body. It may include reconnecting with what brings you energy, happiness and joy. The following are a few ideas to help you reconnect and start your self-care plan:

Be grateful and appreciate what you have

Take time every day to smile and laugh

Enjoy 5-10 minutes to relax, breathe deeply and just be alone

Eat well to nourish your body

Read a good book

Enjoy nature

Set priorities and make a plan

Listen to music

Invest time and energy in things you value

Learn about something new

Trust yourself

Connect with your spiritual self

Ask for help whenever you need it

Communicate in an open and honest way

Get plenty of sleep

For more information on health issues, visit www.mayoclinic.org.