How to Avoid Caregiver Burnout.

 According to the National Family Caregiver Association more than 50 million people  in the United States provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or aged family member or friend during any given year. Providing emotional support and physical care to someone with MS can be deeply satisfying, but it is sometimes distressing, and now and then simply overwhelming. The strain of balancing employment, child-rearing, increased responsibilities in the home, and the care of your loved one may lead to feelings of martyrdom, anger, and guilt.

One of the biggest mistakes caregivers make is thinking that they can-and should-handle everything alone.  Maria M. Meyer, co-author of the award-winning book, The Comfort of Home™: An Illustrated Step-by-Step Guide for Caregivers, advises caregivers to accept the practical and emotional support of other people.  Sharing concerns with others relieves stress and can give new perspectives on problems.  She points out that successful caregivers don't give up enjoyable activities; they make time for themselves.  Other family members are often willing-even pleased-to spend time with the person in your care.  Keep a list of people that can take care of your loved one from time to time.  If they are not available, many organizations have respite care programs.  Respite care is short-term care that helps parents, caregivers, and professionals take a break from the daily routine and stress.  It can be provided in the client's home or in a variety of out of home settings. For a referral, contact the National Respite Locator Service, operated by the ARCH National Resource Center (919) 490-5577 (http://www.respitelocator.org).

In collaboration with the USA National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Meyer's new book, The Comfort of Home Multiple Sclerosis Edition™: An Illustrated Step-by-Step Guide for Multiple Sclerosis Caregivers, addresses the day-to-day issues confronted by MS caregivers.  The book guides readers through every caregiving stage from making the decision to provide home care, to preparing the home for comfort and safety to assisting with activities of daily living to strategies to avoid caregiver burnout.  Other important topics covered include financial management, purchasing equipment, travel, therapies, and much more. Chapters are filled with special notes and tips that alert both MS patients and caregivers to important issues that make life easier for all concerned.

Being a caregiver is not for the timid and fearful.  With this complete guide in hand, readers will overcome their fears, understand what help is needed and learn where to find it or how to provide it themselves.

Additional Tips on How to Prevent Caregiver Burnout:

• Do not allow the person in your care to take unfair advantage of you by being overly demanding.
• List priorities, decide what to leave undone, and think of
ways to make the work easier.
• Find time for regular exercise to increase your energy (even if you only stretch in place).
• When doing a long boring care task, use the time to relax or listen to music.
• Focus on getting relaxing sleep rather than more sleep. Take several short rests in order to get enough sleep.
• Practice deep breathing and learn to meditate to empty your mind of all troubles.
• Allow your self-esteem to rise because you have discovered hidden skills and talents.
• Realize your own limitations and accept them.