Research shows that effective family and caregiver involvement in a loved one’s mental health treatment supports patient recovery, improves social connections and can decrease mental health crises. But being a caregiver can be stressful and overwhelming at times. Ensuring caregivers have access to support resources is essential to sustaining their wellbeing in this vital role. When caregivers look after their own health they’re better able to handle the challenges of caregiving. This self-care helps them stay strong, focused, and patient, which ultimately benefits the person they’re caring for too.
Here are some ways caregivers can care for themselves:
- Educate Yourself: Learn about your loved one’s mental illness so you can understand what they’re going through. This will help you support them better and respond to their needs in a more informed way.
- Stay Connected: Don’t isolate yourself. Keep in touch with friends, family, or support groups who understand what you’re going through. Talking to others can provide emotional support and remind you that you’re not alone.
- Join a Caregiver Support Group: Connecting with others who are in similar situations can be incredibly helpful. Support groups offer a space to share experiences, get advice, and find comfort in knowing others understand what you’re going through.
- Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from others. Whether it’s family members, friends, or professional caregivers, accepting help can relieve some of the pressure and give you time to focus on your well-being.
- Practice Self-Care: Make time for activities that nurture your body and mind, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for your health.
- Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no or set limits on what you can do. Being a caregiver doesn’t mean you have to do everything. Setting boundaries can help you manage stress and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
By taking care of yourself, you’ll be in a better position to care for your loved one. Remember, your health and well-being are just as important as the care and support you provide to others.
Resources
- BIPOC Mental Health Resources| NAMI Seattle
- Blueprint for Families of Loved Ones with Mental Health Issues (caregiveraction.org) – includes content on HIPAA
- Caring For Another: Working with Siblings – Family Caregiver Alliance
- Caring for Your Mental Health – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (nih.gov) also available in Spanish
- Caregiver Help Desk: Support for Family Caregivers (caregiveraction.org)
- Family Members and Caregivers | NAMI
- Identity and Cultural Dimensions | NAMI
- Native Elder Caregiver Curriculum – National Resource Center on Native American Aging (nrcnaa.org)
See our guide on searching for a mental health provider.
Offers support, education, and social programs for people whose loved ones are living with dementia.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a national organization with local affiliates throughout the Puget Sound Region. The NAMI Family-to-Family is a free, 8-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people with mental health conditions. It is taught by NAMI-trained family members who have their own lived experience and includes presentations, discussions and interactive exercises.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a national organization with local affiliates throughout the Puget Sound Region. NAMI Family Support Group is a peer-led support group for any adult with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar experiences.