How to managing the stresses of being a caregiver

        Many caregivers deal with stress and anxiety on a regular basis. The key in dealing with that stress is to know what to do when you’re stressed out. It is not always easy to keep your feelings from getting the best of you.
        With this in mind, here are six tips that a caregiver can use to help manage their daily stresses and anxieties before they get out of control.
        • Take a break. Sometimes, we get stressed out when everything happens all at once. When this happens, a person should take a deep breath and try to find something to do for a few minutes to get their mind off of the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper, or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things.
        • Carry a small notebook of positive statements with you. Another technique that is very helpful in managing fear is to have a small notebook of positive statements that makes you feel good. Whenever you come across an affirmation that relaxes you, write it down in a small notebook that you can carry around with you in your pocket. Whenever you feel depressed, open up your small notebook and read those statements.
        • Take it one day at a time. Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or month, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn new things and that includes learning how to deal with your situation. In addition, you will not feel overwhelmed with everything if you focus on one thing at a time.
        • Challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make you anxious, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. Focus on the reality of your situation and not on your thoughts. Your fearful thoughts can make things worse so try to focus on something positive when you get anxious.
        • Divide your caregiver activities into separate steps. When facing a current or upcoming task that overwhelms you with a lot of anxiety as a caregiver, divide the task into a series of smaller steps and then complete each of the smaller tasks one step at a time. Completing these smaller activities will make the stress more manageable and increases your chances of success.
        • Take advantage of the help that is available around you. There are many individuals who have been expertly trained in the field of psychology to help you find ways to manage fear and anxiety. Seek out someone whom you trust to provide sound advice and guidance. This same professional can also help you create an action plan for dealing with your fears and anxieties in the future.
        Stan Popovich is the author of the book, “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear.” For more information, visit www.managingfear.com