Friday, September 28, 2007


Depression and the Caretaker!

Caring for yourself
It's a cliché, but it's true—you can't take good care of someone else if you don't take care of yourself. That can be a challenge when a loved one, particularly a spouse, is depressed. Taking care of yourself includes eating well, exercising and getting enough rest. Here are some other recommended strategies:
Create a "support staff." Enlist other people to shoulder some of the responsibilities.
Take time to recharge. Go see a movie. Go for a walk. Spend time with friends.
Set limits. You don't have to be on duty 24 hours a day.
Don't be afraid to seek professional help. Consider going to individual counseling or family therapy.
Remember that you're not alone. Look for support groups where you can connect with people in similar situations.
Stay hopeful. The majority of people respond well to treatment, especially with the latest advances in medication.
All the above is true and is easily written, very hard to practice and I know first hand.
Thank God for friends!

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