Research shows that family caregivers who list self-care as a priority can better provide care, are at lower risk of burnout and becoming ill, and find more joy in their role as a caregiver. Starting with small acts of self-care can create the opportunity to see the benefits. Calling a friend who lifts you up, accepting help, finding five minutes for a cup of tea in silence, or closing your eyes and breathing for 10 breaths are all acts of self-care.

Today we'll hear Rick's story, who shares his caregiving experience with both of his parents. Like many caregivers, Rick didn’t expect to be thrown into a caregiving role when he was. He quickly took on the many roles needed to ensure his parents were safe and well-cared for. Caregiving became a full-time job and it was during this time that he started to see his own health and wellness decline. He turned to writing to help him process his experience and feelings and this became a positive and reliant self-care strategy for him. In sharing his caregiving story, we hope you enjoy and feel supported by Rick's point of voice and maybe even consider your own favourite moments of self-care.

Resources:

• Walking the Talk of Self-Care: Practical Strategies for Caregivers Webinar https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/walking-the-talk-of-self-care-practical-strategies-for-caregivers/
• Caregiver Burnout and Feeling Stuck Learning Video https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/caregiver-burnout-and-feeling-stuck/
• Checking In on How You are Feeling Article https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Checking-In-On-How-You-Are-Feeling.pdf
• Taking Care of Yourself: Self-Care Strategies for Family and Friend Caregivers Flipbook https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Taking-Care-of-Yourself-Self-Care-for-Caregivers-Booklet.pdf
• Learn more about FCBC Intensive Journal Writing Program https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/learn-about-our-intensive-journal-workshop-for-caregivers/
• What you Need to Know About Power of Attorney https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/what-you-need-to-know-about-powers-of-attorney/

Online Tools and Apps:

• Wellness Together Canada https://wellnesstogether.ca/en-CA

Connect With Us!

Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/

Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267

Fax: (250) 361-2660

Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca

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Thank you!

BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients

Organized Sound Productions https://www.organizedsound.ca/