1. < Caregivers

Time out

Posted by jodeej @jodeej, Jun 13, 2018

I've been told by 3-4 people in the past couple weeks that I need to take a break. One was my brother-in-law who had a liver transplant 4 years ago. Another was my massage therapist who said stress is starting to affect my health and that she has noticed that my personality has changed since my husband's diagnosis. It's been suggested that I get away for a couple days, so I'm debating about going too my sister's house. What's making me nervous about it is the fact that my husband's MELD is up to 30, so "the call" could come anytime now. (His brother transplanted at a 31.)

I would have a plan in place of what to do if the call did happen to come while I'm gone. I also wouldn't go if my husband isn't comfortable with it. I just really need a break. Would I be out of line if I go?

Thank you,
JoDee

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Mentor
Scott, Volunteer Mentor | @IndianaScott | Jun 13, 2018

Good morning @jodeej Always nice to hear from you! I just spent two days at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota for some educational sessions. One of the best speakers was a doctor who spoke on burnout, especially those in roles as caregivers of some type. He emphasized how the brain and the body are intertwined and the importance of self-care.

While I understand each person's decisions in this area are unique to themselves, if it were me and I had the chance to do this break, had a positive location to go to, and my patient was comfortable with my plan while I was gone, I'd go for it. Sounds like it would be a solid, needed break

It sounds as if your sister's would be a good location and with some supportive people around you too.

My only caveat would be this; I also remember a lot of folks telling me what to do when I was a caregiver, which if I chose not to follow their advice or simply couldn't follow it, rather than relaxing me it added to my already sky high stress levels.

So a bit of follow YOUR heart advice here I guess 🙂

What do other caregivers here think?

Strength, courage, and peace!

REPLY
1 reply
Harriet Hodgson | @harriethodgson1 | Jun 13, 2018

All caregivers need a break. My body tells me when I need one. My arthritic hips are more painful, my fingers don't work as well, I'm generally tired, and get discouraged easily. When this happens I slow down, take naps if necessary, fix simpler meals, and do something for myself, such as reading for an hour. Listen to your body. Listen to your soul.

REPLY
jodeej | @jodeej | Jun 13, 2018
In reply to @IndianaScott "Good morning @jodeej Always nice to hear from you! I just spent two days at the..." + (show)
@IndianaScott

Good morning @jodeej Always nice to hear from you! I just spent two days at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota for some educational sessions. One of the best speakers was a doctor who spoke on burnout, especially those in roles as caregivers of some type. He emphasized how the brain and the body are intertwined and the importance of self-care.

While I understand each person's decisions in this area are unique to themselves, if it were me and I had the chance to do this break, had a positive location to go to, and my patient was comfortable with my plan while I was gone, I'd go for it. Sounds like it would be a solid, needed break

It sounds as if your sister's would be a good location and with some supportive people around you too.

My only caveat would be this; I also remember a lot of folks telling me what to do when I was a caregiver, which if I chose not to follow their advice or simply couldn't follow it, rather than relaxing me it added to my already sky high stress levels.

So a bit of follow YOUR heart advice here I guess 🙂

What do other caregivers here think?

Strength, courage, and peace!

Jump to this post

@IndianaScott I was very adamant aft first about not going, but after my massage therapist told me she noticed personality and physical changes in me, I know I need to do something. I have been making a point of getting out with my friends more recently. We went to the farmers market and an arts festival over the weekend and last night I went a on group hike. They have helped, but I think I need something a little longer.
Thank you for your input.
JoDee

REPLY
Harriet Hodgson | @harriethodgson1 | Jun 13, 2018

Thanks for the like SallySue

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Moderator
Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Jul 5, 2018

How are YOU doing, @jodeej ?

REPLY
jodeej | @jodeej | Jul 5, 2018

@colleenyoung I'm doing well. I had a great weekend with my sister. 🙂 My husband and I had a very quiet 4th. Now we are back to just waiting on the call.
Thank you for asking!
JoDee

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