Traditional support groups have been a mainstay for caregivers, offering a space to share experiences and gain information. However, these groups may not fully address the emotional complexities and mental health challenges faced by caregivers. Recent research from Harvard highlights a promising alternative: Mentalizing Imagery Therapy (MIT).

Research shows that regardless of age, nature can boost physical and mental health and well-being. For family caregivers and those needing care, time in nature is a critical stress-taming ally. A simple walk together in a park, a pause to look through a window, or a moment outside to look at the tree right in front of your home can be an act of caregiving and self-care all at once.

Community involvement is part of being human. From a sense of contribution to the success and happiness of others to knowing you also have support if ever needed, there is a reason humans are social by nature. Family caregivers live this. We can accomplish a lot when we work together so it's critical especially to remember that you can cultivate that sense of community in many areas of your life.

As a former family caregiver, I often get asked for advice on how people can be most helpful to the caregiver in their lives. I spent nearly a decade caring for my husband, Steve, and have a lot of experience in this arena.

Had I understood this sooner, I would have realized the better way to care would be to say, “these are my needs and for me to continue to show up for you, I need you to take these needs seriously.”  But that is the benefit of hindsight.

In this week’s post, we offer a helpful summary of 7 skills that family caregivers can practice to tolerate the distress that frequently parallels caregiving. The goal is not only to prevent burnout, but to enrich the caregiver’s spirit.

The family caregiver chooses a path of profound commitment. It can be entwined with love, sacrifice, and relentless dedication or shaped by duty and obligation. Whatever the reason, caregiving often brings an abundance of emotional turbulence, where heartwarming moments alternate with exhaustion, worry, and constant care demands.

I remember the first time someone mentioned the term “Caregiving Fatigue” to me. It was after a social media post I made where I was sharing a vulnerable moment…