Celebrating You!
Dear Caregivers,
I frankly get a little overwhelmed with all the “National FILL-IN-THE-BLANK” months that seem to continually come our way, but there is one that I pay special attention to: National Family Caregivers Month.
As the Caregiver Action Network declares on its website: “Each November, we pause to recognize and honor the 63+ million family caregivers across the United States who devote their time, energy, and love to supporting a family member or friend with health needs.”
In keeping with that sentiment, I and the rest of us here at NAN want to extend a heartfelt “Thank You!” to you, for all that you do.
Of course, your work, and our thanks, extends far beyond the month of November. But we do want to take this time to re-pledge our commitment to support, advise, and help you in any way we can. NAN is your dedicated partner in this journey, and we want you to be secure in the knowledge that we’re here for you, whenever you need us.
Here are some ways you can embrace your role as a family caregiver:
Building your Caregiving Mental Health Toolkit:
As a caregiver, you need a host of tools to help you cope and maintain your mental health. Here’s your toolkit.
Setting Boundaries as a Caregiver:
As a caregiver, it is essential that you remain committed to your personal boundaries, making sure that you give yourself time and space to address your personal needs for rest, relaxation, and fulfillment. This foundation for positive self-care is vital in improving your well-being. Here’s how to do it.
Finding the Joy as a Family Caregiver:
The challenge that family caregivers face is to learn acceptance, to live in the present moment, and to let go of things you cannot control. This is a challenge to be sure, but if there can be any joy in caregiving, this is where it is.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“The simple act of caring is heroic.”
— Edward Albert
