When the Friends Life Care Mental Health Committee began earlier this year, one of the initial topics the team aimed to explore was the mental health impact of caregiving, especially concerning family caregivers.  

Care coordinators routinely engage with members who are currently fulfilling the role of family caregivers or have done so in the past. These coordinators have firsthand experience witnessing the stress, burnout, and mental health challenges that affect these caregivers. 

The Mental Health Committee expressed a particular interest in providing support to caregivers during the holiday season. We acknowledge that while the holiday season is a time of joy for many, for current or former caregivers, it can carry shades of grief.  

Continue reading to discover the top three tools you can add to your mental health toolkit to honor your experience as a family caregiver during this holiday season. 

Communication is Key 

Prior to the holidays, take a moment to let your closest loved ones know how they can support you. Maybe you usually bake a pie for the holiday gathering, but this year, it feels too overwhelming. Or perhaps it would be helpful for you to be seated at the head of the table, enabling you to assist the person you are caring for more efficiently. 

 It could be that you want your loved ones to understand that this time of year is challenging for you since losing your partner, and you don’t want them to worry if you seem a bit quiet during the holiday meal. 

What Does Self-Care Look Like For You 

The holiday season is typically a busy time filled with family and friends, and we often neglect our own needs and desires. Don’t get lost in the hustle and bustle, but instead, carve out some time for yourself. There are several cost-free self-care options, such as taking a relaxing walk, journaling, practicing meditation, reading a book, or simply taking a nap.  

An added bonus during the holidays is that you might have more of your support network in town. Can they be available to assist with caregiving responsibilities, allowing you to schedule some essential self-care time? 

Start a New Tradition 

Since embarking on your journey as a caregiver, your life has undoubtedly changed. Have your holiday traditions adapted to this new phase in your life? If not, it’s time to explore new traditions that align with your current circumstances. Instead of dwelling on what you’ve lost as a caregiver, focus on what is new.  

 AARP suggests some wonderful new holiday traditions, like watching a holiday concert on TV or video chatting with a loved one across the country. 

More About Coping With Grief  

Remember that grief is a complex and unpredictable emotion that can surface at inopportune times. Make space for the possibility that this holiday season may bring forth complex feelings. This video share more information and tips for coping with grief through the holidays. Click below to watch it now.  

Please keep in mind that there are support networks and resources available to guide you through your caregiving journey. Your mental health is of the utmost importance, and seeking help when needed is a sign of strength and resilience.  

 

Contributed by: 

Katie Starrantino, LCSW, M.Ed, CDP — Director of Wellness Initiatives
(she/her) 

Katie has been working in the medical field for over 10 years.  During this time she has assisted in meeting the psychosocial needs of individuals living with cancer, rehabilitation patients, nursing home residents, primary care patients and individuals with a dementia diagnosis. 

Katie is a licensed clinical social worker who holds a masters degree in social work from West Chester University.  In addition, she has a masters degree in human sexuality from Widener University.  She is a certified dementia practitioner. And she is also trained to teach the Alzheimer’s Association’s Person Centered Habilitation Training curriculum. 

Katie developed and carried out various wellness programs for non-profit organizations, aimed at keeping patients feeling their best. Katie enjoys forming relationships with her members and assisting to keep them to be happy and healthy. 

 

 

 Friends Life Care is a not for profit organization with a mission to help seniors and baby boomers live independently in their own homes as they age.  The eMeetinghouse blog includes posts about topics that are important to aging adults who want to to thrive at home as they get older (age in place). Friends Life Care’s Plan Counselors are available to share information about Friends Life Care and how it can help members get a plan in place to help achieve the goal for a future lived in the place you call home.  For members with an assigned Wellness or Care Coordinator, we’d appreciate your comments about caregiving experiences you may have had.