Caregiver Support
The Caregiver's Dilemma
Caregivers to children diagnosed with Autism have a high rate of caregiver burnout. Caregiver burnout is described as increased stress, depression, anxiety, exhaustion, isolation, and/or withdrawal. Caregiver burnout can affect a caregiver's social life, leisure time, family dynamics, work, physical health, finical status, and spiritual health. The following tips are suggestions to help reduce the risk of caregiver burnout.
Caregivers to children diagnosed with Autism have a high rate of caregiver burnout. Caregiver burnout is described as increased stress, depression, anxiety, exhaustion, isolation, and/or withdrawal. Caregiver burnout can affect a caregiver's social life, leisure time, family dynamics, work, physical health, finical status, and spiritual health. The following tips are suggestions to help reduce the risk of caregiver burnout.
"A study done in 2010 determined that 24% of the caregivers to children diagnosed with Autism expressed a low level of caregiver burnout, 39% expressed a moderate level of caregiver burnout, and 37% of caregivers expressed a high level of caregiver burnout." (Weiss & Lunsky, 2010)
Tips for Caregivers
Take breaks: It is essential to schedule time for yourself. Even if it is just an hour or two a week, it is important to set aside time to allow yourself to engage in your preferred leisure activities. This might be reading a book, going out to dinner, or even reading a book!
Exercise: Whether through a brisk walk, a bike ride, or yoga, most people find that exercise helps clear the mind, boost energy levels, and improve sleep. Even 20 minutes can do the trick, so save a bit of time every day to get moving.
Stay organized: Keep all the information you've accumulated about your child's diagnosis in one place, including medication schedules, important phone numbers, and insurance information. And since dealing with insurance companies can often seem like a full-time job in itself, enlist the help of your spouse or another trusted family member or friend to help keep it all straight. Use a notebook to keep all of the information in one place.
Support Groups: Seek out support groups for caregivers of children diagnosed with Autism in your area. When a child is diagnosed with Autism, it can be a very confusing time. Support groups can help caregivers create supportive connections with other caregivers and help share useful information and support.
Acknowledge your feelings: Because caregivers tend to be on autopilot, they're not usually quick to recognize burnout in themselves. Other people might notice the symptoms first, which can include changes in appetite and sleep patterns, withdrawal from social activities, increased anxiety, or emotions that are either heightened (such as excessive crying or irritability) or decreased (feeling empty or unconcerned). Take it seriously if someone you trust notices any of these things in you.
Healing Breathing: As you sit quietly in a comfortable position, count your breaths from 1 to 10, and repeat, breathing deeply and evenly while trying to remain focused on the present moment. Try not to get frustrated if your mind begins to drift, just ease it back on track. With practice you will be able to better still your thoughts.
Don't Forget About Your Own Health: Set a goal to establish a good sleep routine and to exercise a certain number of hours every week. Be sure to eat healthy and drink plenty of water.
Maintain Positive Relationships in Your Life: You may be overwhelmed, but take time to talk with friends and family you are closest to. Spend an evening with someone who is a good listener. Limit your interactions with negative people who will drag down your mood and perspective. Surround yourself with those who appreciate you and really care.