International Self-Care Day is a global reminder that caring for yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. And for the millions of family caregivers across California and beyond, that message couldn’t be more timely.
About one in four adults in the United States is an informal or family caregiver – someone caring for an ill spouse or partner or an aging friend or relative. Caregiving can be deeply rewarding, but it also carries real emotional and physical weight. Caregivers report higher levels of stress than non-caregivers, and that stress, left unaddressed, can lead to burnout.
Caregiver Resource Center OC hosted a livestream dedicated to this topic: 10 Ways to Take Care of You. The session offers warm, practical guidance for caregivers who are so focused on others that they often forget to check in on themselves.
Signs You May Be Burning Out
Before you can practice self-care, you have to notice when you need it. The livestream outlined common burnout warning signs to watch for:
- Constant worry or feeling burdened
- Trouble sleeping – too much or too little
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Feeling sad, anxious, or easily angered
- Missing your own medical appointments
- Gaining or losing weight unexpectedly
Think of these as your personal check engine light. When they appear, something needs attention.
10 Ways to Take Care of You
Here are the 10 self-care strategies shared in the video:
- Ask for and accept help. Make a list of ways others could pitch in — a walk, a meal, help at a medical appointment — and let people choose how to contribute.
- Focus on what you can do. No caregiver is perfect. Believe you are doing your best, because you are.
- Set goals you can reach. Break big tasks into smaller steps, follow a daily routine, and give yourself permission to say no to draining obligations.
- Get connected. Explore local caregiving resources – classes, transportation, meal delivery, and housekeeping services may be available near you.
- Join a support group. Others in similar situations can offer encouragement, practical solutions, and even new friendships.
- Seek social support. Stay in touch with friends and family who lift you up – even a quick walk or cup of coffee counts.
- Take care of your own health. Prioritize sleep, movement, hydration, and a healthy diet. Many caregivers struggle with sleep; if that’s you, talk to your healthcare provider.
- See your own healthcare professional. Keep up with your screenings and tell your doctor you’re a caregiver – it matters for your care.
- Use respite care. Taking a break can be one of the best things you do for yourself and for the person you’re caring for.
- Try meditation or deep breathing. The session closed with a guided mindfulness exercise – and it only took three minutes.
This free, virtual caregiver training is available anytime. Browse other on-demand classes and livestreams on CRC OC’s YouTube Channel. If you’d like to attend a live event, visit our upcoming events calendar or connect with your local Caregiver Resource Center!
Keep Exploring
If this resonates with you, here are a few other resources that may help:
- Self-Care for Sandwich Generation Caregivers – practical tools for those caring for both aging parents and children at the same time
- Navigating Difficult Caregiving Relationships – honest guidance for caregiving situations that are complicated by the relationship itself
- Caregiver Check-In Quiz – wondering if you’re experiencing burnout? Take the quiz to find out
You don’t have to do this alone. California’s 11 nonprofit Caregiver Resource Centers are here to help with support groups, counseling, respite assistance, and much more. Find your local Caregiver Resource Center today.
Happy International Self-Care Day. You deserve it.
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