Have You Asked for What You Need? ³

Yes, it’s hard to ask for help. But friends who offer want to support you. Fresh loads of laundry? A healthy supper? A grocery run? Jot down 3 things you could use today—and tell someone who asks. Need help of thinking of ways others can help you? First, you may want to map out all of your caregiving tasks in this Caregiving Planning Guide – then you can determine what others can help with, and assign them one of the tasks you outlined in your guide. ( CLICK FOR ARTICLE HERE ) ⁴

Have You Checked Your Stress Levels?

Enemy #1: Stress. Caregivers report higher stress levels than others, which can prompt illness. ⁵

• Pick 2-3 stress-busters, and dedicate 30 minutes daily.
• Watch a comedy, or do yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, or breathing exercises. ⁶
• Or try Cleveland Clinic’s Stress Free Now app. ( DOWNLOAD APP HERE )

Have You Put Sleep Strategies in Place?

It’s no shocker: You need more sleep. One study found half of caregivers got inadequate sleep, causing daytime fatigue. ⁷ Try these proven tricks: Skip big meals before bed, and keep your bedroom cool and dark—and TV and electronic-device screens out of it. ⁸ Also try these 5 Secret Sleep Tools. ( CLICK TO SEE INFOGRAPHIC )

Have You Gotten Outside Yet?

It's 4:00 pm. Been outdoors? Even if it's for a 10-minute walk around the block, you'll be surprised at the energy boost and calm a short stroll can bring. ⁹ Set this one as your goal: get outdoors daily. If you just can't swing it, look at nature photos, which can also be stress-lowering, finds research. ¹⁰

Did You Talk It Out Today?

Be good to yourself: schedule a 20-minute phone conversation weekly with friends you can open up to. Research shows that laughter is an especially potent stress buster. ¹¹ Support groups also provide relief, and connect you with other caregivers. Sharon and Chris found a healthy outlet at Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN).