The decision to take on the role of caregiver to a loved one can be quite complex. On one hand, we may have the strong desire to be there and do whatever we can to help. On the other hand, it is a tremendous responsibility and can often become quite overwhelming. Whether we are taking care of a child with special health care needs, a disabled spouse or an elderly parent, the stress is REAL. Those of us who take care of others frequently lose sight of our own wellness, and before we know it, we may be faced with our own health crisis.   Researchers have suggested that caregivers are at an increased risk for health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and a compromised immune system. Studies found that the physical symptoms of caregiver stress are a result of a prolonged and elevated level of stress hormones circulating in the body. Researchers also suggest that caregiver stress hormone levels are similar to those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.*   What can we do to avoid what seems like the inevitable? Although it may seem a bit cliché, it is important that we take time for ourselves. Time to rest, eat well, exercise, and have regular checkups. When we are short on time, energy or resources, we need to ask for help. We have to build time into our daily lives for “planned stress relief” in order to maintain our own well-being so we are strong enough to take good care of our loved ones.   Throughout this article, I’ve said “we”, because I am just like you…a “caregiver”. Years ago, I was stressed, worn out, anxious, and unhealthy. That was when I came to The Physical Therapy Doctor, P.C. as a patient. I was not sleeping through the night, suffered from migraine headaches almost daily and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. For years, I was a caregiver to multiple members of my family and consistently put my own health and wellness on the back burner. The result of years of neglecting myself were not good. I was in my early forties, overweight, with cholesterol-lowering-info.com, a fatty liver, muscle spasms throughout my entire body, and my nerves were shot. Of course, this would not be a good situation for anyone.   My healing and wellness began when I started with A.A.T. (Associative Awareness Technique) at The Physical Therapy Doctor, P.C. I learned about my body, my brain, and how to help myself feel better. A.A.T. put the power in MY hands to make positive, healthy life changes by decreasing my fear, sadness, and frustration, and ELIMINATING MY PAIN. Once my pain was gone, I was finally able to exercise effectively and consistently which led to my 35 LB. WEIGHT LOSS, along with a renewed sense of hope and confidence. As the Patient Care Coordinator at The Physical Therapy Doctor, P.C., I am delighted to be able to share my story in an effort to educate and support patients throughout their healing process.   *Schulz R, Beach S. Caregiving as a risk factor for mortality: the caregiver health effects study. JAMA. 1999;282:2215-2219.

by Donna, Patient Care Coordinator at The Physical Therapy Doctor, P.C.