Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and under water? Frazzled to the max?
You’re certainly in good company!
The challenges and demands of day-to-day life are overwhelming. Not to mention the triggers and seizures that can be a consequence.
So what can we do about it?
It’s called “burn out.”
Because, let’s face it, being a caregiver is exhausting.
You may feel guilt, resentment, anger, anxiety or helplessness.
You may have to give up your income and career prospects to care for someone.
Even if you love the person very deeply, it can feel as though the focus is always on them and your needs and wishes go unnoticed.
Often you deal with the situation alone and feel very isolated. (My mother-in-law didn’t leave the house for two years when my father-in-law was dying.)
But you can’t do anything to help another person if you’re a basket case yourself.
It’s called “burn out.” Because, let’s face it, being a caregiver is exhausting.
You may feel guilt, resentment, anger, anxiety or helplessness.
You may have to give up your income and career prospects to care for someone.
Even if you love the person very deeply, it can feel as though the focus is always on them and your needs and wishes go unnoticed.
Often you deal with the situation alone and feel very isolated.
(My mother-in-law didn’t leave the house for two years when my father-in-law was dying.)
But you can’t do anything to help another person if you’re a basket case yourself.
To be the best caregiver possible, you need to be physically and emotionally well, yourself.
After all, how effective can you be…
One thing I’ve discovered is the search for support groups is endless — and seldom successful.
Especially now that charitable contributions are tight and epilepsy centers have had to cut expenses. (Yes, our support is considered an “expense”.)
That’s why I’ve put together this short guide on how to form your own Epilepsy Support Group.