62 | www. Char l es tonPhys i c i ans . com | www.Hea l thL i nksChar l es ton . com We all know the airline adage, “In case of a drop in cabin pressure, put the oxygen mask on yourself before helping others.” Caregivers, both professional caregivers and those who offer support for a loved one at home, admit that they often put that proverbial mask on others first. It is almost impossible not to, they contend. As the number of professional caregivers declines and there is more burnout among all the caregiving ranks, self-care has to come first, experts confirm. Whether that care comes in the form of taking more time off or practicing meditation during the token free minutes that they do have, caregivers need replenishment. “The consistent act of giving to others can lead to very real feelings of burnout, exhaustion and stress, which ultimately has a negative impact not only on our own well-being but also on the well-being of those that we teach, work and live with,” said Charleston resident Blair Perry, caregiver of 18 years, full-time pediatric occupational therapist and full-time mom of three boys. “Managing and trying to keep up with it all can be very chaotic, dysregulating, overwhelming and just plain exhausting.” CAREGIVERS: GIVE YOURSELF OXYGEN FIRST By Isabel Alvarez Arata
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1