** Edited by
Baha and Margaret Habashy
The Challenge
Caring for others can be rewarding, but it’s also stressful. One way to manage stress is by finding “flow”—a state of deep focus where you lose track of time and feel fully engaged in what you’re doing. Activities like journaling, painting, or playing music can help. To get started, pick enjoyable tasks, limit distractions, and challenge yourself at the right level. Keep a log of your experiences and make time for flow every day!
Meet Sally
Sally loved her grandmother, but caregiving was harder than she had imagined. Every morning, she helped Grandma out of bed, carefully guiding her fragile body to the bathroom. Some days, Grandma was cheerful; other days, frustration filled the air as she forgot where she was or refused to eat.
Sally juggled grocery shopping, doctor’s appointments, and endless medication schedules while trying to hold onto her own life. She missed coffee dates with friends and quiet evenings reading. Instead, her days were filled with worry—was Grandma eating enough? Was she safe when Sally stepped away?
One evening, as Sally helped her grandmother into bed, exhaustion weighed on her. “I don’t know how much longer I can do this,” she whispered to herself. But then, Grandma took her hand, her eyes soft. “I don’t say it enough, but I’m so grateful for you,” she said.
Tears welled in Sally’s eyes. She knew she needed to find a way to care for herself, too. The next day, she set aside 15 minutes to paint—a hobby she had forgotten. As the brush moved across the canvas, she felt something new: peace. Maybe, just maybe, she could find balance after all.
BIBLICAL INSIGHTS
Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Caregiving can be exhausting, but Jesus offers rest and renewal. Leaning on Him through prayer can bring peace in overwhelming moments.
Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Sally’s care for her grandmother is an act of love and service. Even when it feels draining, her efforts are meaningful and will bear fruit.
Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
In moments of exhaustion and doubt, God promises strength and support. Caregivers can find comfort in knowing they are never alone.
Colossians 3:23 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Caregiving, though challenging, is a way to serve God. Approaching it with love and devotion transforms daily struggles into acts of faith.
1 Peter 5:7 – “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
When stress and worry feel overwhelming, caregivers can surrender their burdens to God, trusting in His care and provision.
THOUGHTS AND TIPS
- Take Breaks. Example: Sally schedules 15-minute breaks during the day to step outside for fresh air or listen to music.
- Ask for Help. Example: She reaches out to a sibling or friend to assist with grocery shopping or give her a few hours off each week.
- Prioritize Self-Care. Example: Sally sets aside time for a relaxing activity like reading or journaling before bed.
- Stay Organized. Example: She keeps a daily planner with medication times, doctor visits, and important notes.
- Set Realistic Expectations. Example: She reminds herself that she can’t do everything perfectly and that some days will be harder than others.
- Find a Support Group. Example: She joins a local or online caregivers’ group to share struggles and get advice.
- Use “Flow” Activities to De-Stress. Example: She paints for 20 minutes every evening to clear her mind.
- Create a Routine. Example: Sticking to a consistent morning and evening routine helps her grandmother feel secure.
- Accept Imperfection. Example: If Sally serves a simple meal instead of cooking from scratch, she reminds herself that it’s okay.
- Communicate Openly. Example: She talks to her grandmother about how they’re both feeling and what they need.
- Utilize Respite Care. Example: She arranges for a professional caregiver once a month so she can take a full day to rest.
- Practice Deep Breathing. Example: When overwhelmed, she takes five deep breaths to calm herself before reacting.
- Keep a Gratitude Journal. Example: Each night, she writes down three small things she was grateful for during the day.
- Learn to Say No. Example: She declines extra commitments that would add stress, focusing on what truly matters.
- Use Technology to Ease the Load. Example: She sets medication reminders on her phone and uses grocery delivery services.
- Stay Physically Active. Example: She takes short walks with her grandmother or does light stretching at home.
- Focus on Moments of Joy. Example: Instead of worrying about everything, she enjoys small moments, like listening to her grandmother’s stories.
- Seek Professional Guidance When Needed. Example: She consults a doctor or counsellor when struggling with emotional burnout.
- Make Mealtimes Simple and Nutritious. Example: She prepares easy, healthy meals in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
- Laugh When You Can. Example: She watches funny videos with her grandmother or shares lighthearted moments to ease tension.
At our Community Forum you post your prayer requests, gain spiritual guidance, seek emotional support, and get answers to your caregiving questions. Moderated by qualified Christians, pastors, and healthcare professionals, it is our gift to serve you.
** Note: This blog content was developed with help from ChatGPT 3.5. The story, names and images are for illustration only.
Leave a Reply
Want to join the discussion?Feel free to contribute!