No matter what disease or disability your loved one has, being a caregiver is a lonely business.

After all, aren’t you the one who’s supposed to hold it all together? You’re not allowed to lose your temper, or even cry, because that’s upsetting to your loved one. So day after day, you administer medications, change bedding, help someone up or down, make sure meals are nutritious and are actually eaten… the list is endless. So, here’s the question: WHAT ABOUT YOU?

You matter. Your feelings matter. Your health matters. You’re inherent ability to be yourself matters. Remember the person who had hopes and dreams too, but now doesn’t seem to have the time to take a break? And as good as you are, you’re human.

Studies have shown that parents of children with cystic fibrosis are twice as likely to have depression, anxiety–or both–when compared to parents of well children. So before you reach the end of your rope, here are a few tips to help keep you from being swept away:

• Schedule time for yourself, even if it means asking someone to take over your caregiving responsibilities for an hour or two. Take a walk, listen to soothing music, or go get a mani/pedi.
• Talk to other parents of children with cystic fibrosis. They may have life hacks that can be invaluable. Remember, nothing speaks like experience.
• Get enough sleep. Sleep is medicine and when you don’t get enough of it, small deals become big deals.
• Talk to a therapist, or spiritual advisor, or someone who is a neutral party. Believe it or not, all caregivers have pretty much the same issues so it’s important to be able to express yourself in a safe environment.

Finally, give yourself a pat on the back. What you do every day, 24/7, 365 days a year, can make mere mortals bow in awe. And they should bow down…because caregivers are AWESOME!

Share this post with friends and family you know dealing with chronic illness or cystic fibrosis!

This month, PatientWorthy is teaming up with CysticLife.org to spread awareness of CF and support their collaboration with the Mayo Clinic for a community-driven research project investigating the benefits of exercise for CF patients. If you’re interested in contributing to the fund or want to become a CysticLife member, drop by CysticLife.org or donate here today! Don’t forget to share this post!