Every day caregivers battle stress that is caused by emotional and physical strain from providing care for a loved one, friend, neighbor or relative. Family caregivers have much higher levels of stress compared to people who are not caregivers. Many caregivers are “on call” all day, and this can interfere with their home lives, creating even more stress.  

Caregivers who are stressed may feel overwhelmed, alone or isolated from others. When a caregiver is stressed, it may cause him or her to sleep too much or too little, gain or lose a lot of weight and become easily irritated or angry. Feeling worried or sad are often side effects of stress, as well as having frequent headaches or body aches.

Caregivers are constantly caring for the people around them and sometimes they do not think to take care of themselves. There are many ways to relieve stress and learning how to better manage your time is one of them.

Here are a few time management tips that will help you get more done with less stress:

• Schedule "me" time first. Caregivers can be selfless; it is important to put time aside for you. Kick back and relax by reading, drawing or spending time outdoors.
• Plan ahead. When you plan your day ahead, it will keep you from procrastinating as well, preventing stress throughout your day.  
• Define roles and responsibilities. Duplication of tasks is a big waste of time. Make sure all members of the caregiving team are clear about their duties.  
• Try to focus on three top priorities per day. Make a list and check items off as you complete them. This will help you end the day with a sense of accomplishment.
• Manage expectations. Being a caregiver it grueling work. That being said, you have to keep in mind that you cannot always be a miracle worker.
• Be mindful. Sometimes, multitasking can put you into stress. Focus on one task at a time rather than doing multiple things. This will keep your mind from wandering when doing a task.
• Touch it once. When you shed our work clothes after arriving home, take the extra minute to hang them up or start laundry. Getting a task started and finished as soon as possible will keep you from having to put it on a to-do list. This goes for all the things that you do for the day. After a meal, take the few minutes to clean the dishes and put them away.
• De-clutter and organize yourself. When there is chaos in your life, it will wear you down. Organizing you home will put you at ease and will keep you focused on what is at hand.
• Being a caregiver is very rewarding. There is no better feeling than caring for a person who becomes a part of your life. Tanner Health System’s Get Healthy, Live Well wants to help caregivers battle their stress and better their lives.