On an airplane, an oxygen mask descends in front of you. What do you do? As we all know, the first rule is to put on your own oxygen mask before you assist anyone else. Only when we first help ourselves can we effectively help others. Caring for yourself is one of the most important—and one of the most often forgotten—things you can do as a caregiver. When your needs are taken care of, the person you care for will benefit, too.

Whether or not you want to consider it one, being a caregiver is a job. It’s physically and mentally draining and it is important that you reward yourself in order to stay sane. Take a vacation every now and then, or at least dedicate a few hours a week to you. Go for a walk or shopping; read a book, listen to music, go out with friends, etc.  It doesn’t matter what you do or for how long; even if it’s only for a few minutes, take time for you.

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