Providing care for a loved one can have long-term effects on mental health. In part 3 of our Self Care Series for Caregivers, we’ve got tips for self care of the mind.  When it comes to self care, we have to care for body, mind, and spirit.  Caring for one of the parts of our Self means we’re also caring for the other two.  If you’re an unpaid caregiver, you put in a lot of work to meet the needs for your loved one.  It’s important to remember to care for yourself.  When the overwhelm starts to affect mental health, it might cause an inability to focus or concentrate.  Sometimes impatience, guilt, and frustration becomes part of the caregiver’s mental health.  How can you offset the mental fatigue that can set in?  First, find someone to talk to.  A friend or family member on the phone or by video chat can be a source of support.  A professional can be helpful as well - a licensed counselor, or the hospice social worker or chaplain can support your mental health.  You’re important and essential to the care of your loved one.  The Heart of Hospice cares about your hospice journey.  Connect with us at theheartofhospice.com and find more podcast episodes at theheartofhospice.com/listen.  We’re here to help you - you are The Heart of Hospice! 

Connect with podcast host Jerry Fenter at [email protected].

Connect with podcast host Helen Bauer at [email protected].

Send your questions and comments to [email protected].  We’d love to hear from you!

Find more podcast episodes from The Heart of Hospice on hospice philosophy, hospice basics, self care, and advance care planning here: https://theheartofhospice.libsyn.com/