At the heart of dementia care is the desire to honor the person you love while supporting them through profound changes. While dementia affects cognitive abilities, it doesn’t diminish a person’s need for connection and respect. However, in our efforts to help, we can sometimes fall into communication traps that are counterproductive. This often leads to the critical question: what are three things to never do with your loved one with dementia? Understanding these boundaries is the first step toward more meaningful interaction. This article will explore those essential “don’ts” and equip you with compassionate techniques to improve daily life for you both.
Caring for a loved one with dementia is a profound and often overwhelming experience, marked by moments of joy, frustration, and profound compassion. It requires a unique blend of patience, understanding, and resilience as caregivers navigate the evolving needs and behaviors of their loved ones.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Dementia
- Common Challenges in Dementia Care
- Six Things to Avoid When Caring for Someone with Dementia
- The Importance of Empathy and Patience
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Blue Moon Senior Counseling: Your Partner in Dementia Care
Understanding Dementia
Dementia is not a specific disease but rather a general term for a decline in cognitive abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. It is characterized by memory loss, impaired judgment, personality changes, and difficulty performing familiar tasks. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases. Dementia profoundly affects individuals’ ability to carry out everyday tasks independently. Simple activities like dressing, bathing, and preparing meals become increasingly challenging, necessitating assistance and supervision.
Subtypes of Dementia
- Alzheimer’s Disease: Progressive neurological disorder leading to memory loss and cognitive decline.
- Vascular Dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, resulting in cognitive impairment.
- Lewy Body Dementia: Presence of abnormal protein deposits in the brain leading to cognitive decline, visual hallucinations, and movement disorders.
- Frontotemporal Dementia: Affects behavior, language, and personality due to damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.
Life Expectancy with Dementia
When a loved one receives a dementia diagnosis, it’s natural to wonder about what the future holds. Understanding the general life expectancy can help families plan and make the most of their time together. Research indicates that the average time someone lives after a diagnosis varies based on factors like age and gender. According to one comprehensive study, a man diagnosed at age 65 may live for an average of 5.7 years, while a woman of the same age may live for about 8.0 years. These figures decrease for those diagnosed later in life. With nearly 6.7 million Americans over 65 living with Alzheimer’s, this is a reality for many families. While these numbers can be difficult to process, they highlight the importance of focusing on quality of life and emotional well-being. For family members, the emotional weight of caregiving can be immense, and for the person diagnosed, coping with the illness presents its own set of challenges. Seeking professional counseling can provide a vital outlet and equip you with strategies to manage this difficult journey.
Common Challenges in Dementia Care
Financial Strain
According to the National Library of Medicine, dementia care can be more costly than other caregiving situations. Medical expenses associated with dementia, including doctor’s visits, medications, and specialized equipment, can quickly accumulate, placing a significant strain on financial resources. Moreover, as the disease progresses, individuals with dementia may require round-the-clock care, leading to additional expenses for in-home care services or residential care facilities. For caregivers who need to reduce their working hours or quit their jobs to provide full-time care, the loss of income can further exacerbate financial difficulties, making it challenging to cover essential expenses such as housing, food, and utilities.
Emotional Stress
Caring for a loved one with dementia can take a toll on caregivers’ emotional well-being. Witnessing the gradual decline in a loved one’s cognitive abilities can evoke feelings of grief, loss, and sadness. Caregivers may mourn the loss of the person they once knew and struggle to come to terms with the changes in their relationship. Additionally, the unpredictable nature of dementia symptoms, such as mood swings, agitation, and confusion, can create emotional turmoil for caregivers, who may find themselves constantly navigating challenging behaviors and situations. Over time, research shows that the cumulative stress of caregiving responsibilities can lead to burnout, characterized by feelings of exhaustion, irritability, and emotional detachment.
Physical Demands
Providing care for someone with dementia often involves assisting with various activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and feeding. These tasks can be physically demanding, especially as the disease progresses and the individual’s mobility and motor skills decline. Caregivers may find themselves lifting and transferring their loved ones, maneuvering them in and out of bed or chairs, and helping them with mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs. According to the National Library of Medicine, most caregivers report high levels of physical strain and musculoskeletal discomfort.
Social Isolation
Caring for someone with dementia can be isolating, as caregivers may find themselves increasingly focused on their loved one’s needs at the expense of their social life and personal relationships. The demands of caregiving, coupled with the unpredictable nature of dementia symptoms, can make it challenging for caregivers to maintain social connections and participate in activities outside the home. Some studies state that over 40% of dementia caregivers experience at least moderate levels of loneliness and social isolation.
Managing Sleep Issues
Sleep disturbances are a common and difficult challenge when caring for someone with dementia. According to the Mayo Clinic, these issues can affect both you and your loved one, leading to exhaustion and increased stress. One of the most effective approaches is to establish a consistent daily routine. Encouraging regular physical activity and meaningful engagement during the day can significantly improve sleep at night. Even simple things, like spending time outdoors in natural sunlight, can help regulate their internal clock and promote better rest when it’s time for bed. Creating this structure helps provide a sense of predictability and security, which can be very calming for someone with cognitive decline.
In the evening, focus on creating a calming bedtime routine that signals it’s time to wind down. This might include dimming the lights, avoiding caffeine, and playing soothing music. While these sleep hygiene practices are an excellent place to start, it’s important to tailor them to your loved one’s specific needs. Managing these sleep patterns can be draining, and it’s crucial to recognize the toll it can take on your own mental health. Addressing feelings of caregiver burnout is essential for your well-being. If you find yourself struggling, individual teletherapy can provide a space to develop coping skills and manage the stress that comes with caregiving.
Six Things to Avoid When Caring for Someone with Dementia
Caring for someone with dementia requires a sensitive and adaptable approach that prioritizes their well-being and preserves their dignity and autonomy. While caregiving can be rewarding, it also presents unique challenges that caregivers must navigate with patience and empathy. To provide the best possible care for individuals with dementia, it’s essential to avoid certain behaviors and actions that can exacerbate their symptoms and diminish their quality of life.
1. Never Dismiss Their Feelings
One of the most important things to avoid when caring for someone with dementia is dismissing or invalidating their feelings. Dementia can distort an individual’s perception of reality, leading to confusion, anxiety, and distress. Even if their emotions seem irrational or illogical, it’s crucial to acknowledge and validate their feelings. Dismissing their emotions can cause feelings of frustration, sadness, and isolation, further exacerbating their symptoms and diminishing their quality of life. Instead, caregivers should practice active listening, validate their emotions, and offer reassurance and comfort to alleviate their distress.
2. Avoid Arguing or Correcting
Attempting to argue or correct someone with dementia is counterproductive and can escalate tension and agitation. Dementia affects cognitive functioning, including memory, reasoning, and judgment, making it difficult for individuals to process information and engage in logical reasoning. Instead of arguing or correcting them, caregivers should focus on redirecting their attention or calmly changing the subject. By avoiding confrontational interactions and adopting a compassionate and patient approach, caregivers can minimize stress and promote a more positive caregiving experience for both themselves and the individual with dementia.
Communication Pitfalls to Avoid
Effective communication is the cornerstone of compassionate dementia care. How we speak to our loved ones can either create a sense of safety and connection or lead to frustration and distress. Certain conversational habits, often unintentional, can feel invalidating or confusing to a person with dementia. By becoming aware of these common pitfalls, you can foster a more positive and supportive environment. Avoiding these simple missteps helps preserve your loved one’s dignity and reduces unnecessary emotional strain for both of you, making your interactions more meaningful and less stressful.
Asking memory-testing questions
It’s natural to want reassurance that your loved one remembers you, but asking questions like, “Do you know who I am?” or “Do you remember what we did this morning?” can feel like a test. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, these questions can put them on the spot, causing anxiety, guilt, or even offense if they can’t recall the answer. Instead of quizzing them, offer the information freely and gently. You could say, “Hi Mom, it’s Sarah. I’m so happy to see you.” This approach provides context without pressure, allowing you to connect in the present moment without making them feel inadequate about what they can’t remember.
Pointing out repetition
Hearing the same question or story multiple times can be trying, but pointing it out rarely helps. Saying, “You just asked me that,” won’t help them remember and may only serve to remind them of their memory loss, which can be upsetting. Their repetition isn’t intentional; it’s a symptom of the disease. The best approach is to respond with patience and answer the question again as if it’s the first time you’ve heard it. This act of kindness validates their reality and shows them that you are a safe and reliable source of comfort, strengthening your bond rather than creating a moment of conflict.
Using “elderspeak” or a patronizing tone
Speaking to an adult in a high-pitched, sing-song voice or using overly simplistic, child-like language—often called “elderspeak”—can feel demeaning. Phrases like, “Here comes our sweet little lunch,” or “Don’t we want to put our coat on?” strip away their dignity. A person with dementia is still an adult who has lived a full life, and they deserve to be addressed with respect. Use a calm, normal tone of voice and speak to them as you would any other adult. Treating them with respect helps them maintain their sense of self-worth, which is crucial for their overall well-being.
Giving too much information at once
Dementia can slow a person’s ability to process information, making complex sentences or multi-step instructions overwhelming. If you say, “We need to get your shoes on, then find your coat, and grab your purse because we’re leaving for your doctor’s appointment in ten minutes,” they may struggle to follow along. This can lead to confusion and frustration. Instead, break down tasks into simple, single steps. Say, “Let’s put on your shoes,” and once that’s done, move to the next step: “Now, let’s get your coat.” This clear, one-step-at-a-time approach is much easier for them to understand and act on.
Handling Difficult Topics and Beliefs
As dementia progresses, your loved one may say things that are inaccurate or bring up painful subjects from the past. Navigating these conversations requires a delicate balance of truth and compassion. The goal is not to win an argument or force them to accept reality, but to maintain a peaceful and trusting relationship. Learning how to respond to difficult topics and beliefs is a critical skill for any caregiver, as it directly impacts your loved one’s emotional state and your ability to provide effective support.
Reminding them a loved one has passed away
If your loved one asks for a spouse, parent, or sibling who has passed away, correcting them can be incredibly painful. They may have forgotten the death, and telling them the news again forces them to re-experience the initial shock and grief. Instead of stating the fact of the death, try to respond to the emotion behind their question. They are likely missing that person. You could say, “He’s not here right now, but tell me a favorite memory you have of him.” This validates their feelings and redirects the conversation to a positive memory. The complex emotions of grief are challenging, and sometimes professional bereavement counseling can provide support for the whole family.
Bringing up subjects you know will cause distress
Every person has topics that can trigger frustration or agitation, whether it’s politics, family disagreements, or financial worries. If you know a particular subject consistently leads to an argument or distress, it’s best to avoid it altogether. As UsAgainstAlzheimer’s points out, forcing the issue or trying to prove a point is counterproductive and only creates unnecessary conflict. Your priority is to maintain a calm and positive atmosphere. If they bring up a difficult topic, gently redirect the conversation to something more pleasant and neutral, like the weather, a favorite song, or a happy memory from their past.
Pointing out their struggles or limitations
Constantly correcting someone with dementia or pointing out their mistakes can be detrimental to their self-esteem and your relationship. Hearing “That’s not how you do it,” or “You’re using the wrong spoon,” can make them feel incompetent and criticized. Every correction can feel like a small injury to the relationship. Instead of focusing on the mistake, focus on the need. If they are struggling with a task, offer gentle assistance without judgment. Learning to let go of the need to be right is one of the most important ways you can develop your caregiving skills and preserve a loving connection.
3. Don’t Rush or Overwhelm Them
Individuals with dementia may require more time to process information and perform tasks due to cognitive impairment. Rushing them or overwhelming them with too many instructions can cause frustration, anxiety, and agitation. Caregivers should avoid imposing arbitrary deadlines or expectations and instead allow the person with dementia to proceed at their own pace. Breaking tasks down into smaller, manageable steps and providing gentle guidance and encouragement can help prevent feelings of overwhelm and promote a sense of accomplishment and independence.
4. Avoid Ignoring Their Basic Needs
It’s essential to prioritize the individual’s basic needs, such as food, hydration, hygiene, and rest, to ensure their physical and emotional well-being. Ignoring these needs can lead to discomfort, illness, and deterioration of overall health. Caregivers should ensure they have regular meals and access to water throughout the day, assist with personal hygiene tasks like bathing and grooming, and create a comfortable and safe environment conducive to rest and relaxation. By attending to their basic needs with compassion and attentiveness, caregivers can promote a sense of comfort and security for individuals with dementia.
5. Never Assume They Can’t Understand
Even individuals with advanced dementia can still comprehend emotions and pick up on nonverbal cues. Caregivers should avoid speaking about them in their presence or assuming they can’t understand what’s being said. Instead, they should speak to them directly, using simple language and clear, concise instructions to facilitate understanding. Including them in conversations and decision-making processes whenever possible can help maintain their sense of dignity and autonomy. By treating individuals with dementia with respect and acknowledging their capabilities, caregivers can foster a sense of empowerment and self-worth.
6. Avoid Isolating Them
Social engagement and meaningful interactions are essential for maintaining cognitive function and emotional well-being in individuals with dementia. Caregivers should avoid isolating them and make an effort to include them in family gatherings, social activities, and community events. Planning social outings and activities that cater to their interests and abilities, encouraging visits from friends and family members, and facilitating opportunities for engagement can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. By fostering social connections and providing opportunities for meaningful interaction, caregivers can enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia and promote their overall well-being.
The Importance of Empathy and Patience
Empathy and patience are foundational qualities that play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Understanding the significance of these qualities and actively incorporating them into dementia care can foster meaningful connections, promote emotional well-being, and mitigate the challenges associated with the progressive nature of the disease.
Empathetic Communication
Empathetic communication forms the cornerstone of effective dementia care, as it involves actively listening to the individual’s concerns, validating their emotions, and responding with compassion and understanding. By acknowledging the individual’s feelings and experiences, caregivers can create a supportive environment where the person with dementia feels heard, valued, and respected. Active listening involves more than just hearing words; it entails tuning into nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language to gain insight into the individual’s emotional state and needs.
Cultivating Patience
Patience is a virtue that is particularly indispensable in dementia care, as the disease can manifest in various behavioral and cognitive symptoms that may test caregivers’ patience and resilience. By cultivating patience, caregivers can approach caregiving with a calm, composed demeanor, allowing them to navigate challenging situations with grace and composure. Taking breaks, practicing self-care, and seeking support from others can also help caregivers replenish their patience reserves and maintain their emotional well-being.
Promoting Dignity and Autonomy
Empathy and patience are instrumental in preserving the dignity and autonomy of individuals with dementia, affirming their worth as human beings deserving of respect and compassion. Caregivers can demonstrate empathy by honoring the individual’s preferences, interests, and values, even as the disease progresses and their abilities decline. Patience is essential in allowing individuals with dementia the time and space to engage in activities, express themselves, and maintain a sense of agency and independence for as long as possible. By promoting dignity and autonomy through empathetic and patient care, caregivers can empower individuals with dementia to live meaningful and fulfilling lives, despite the challenges posed by the disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some early signs of dementia?
Early signs of dementia may include memory loss, difficulty performing familiar tasks, confusion, language problems, and changes in mood or behavior.
- How can I communicate effectively with a loved one with dementia?
To communicate effectively with a loved one with dementia, use simple language, maintain eye contact, and be patient and supportive.
- How can I manage caregiver stress?
To manage caregiver stress, seek support from friends and family, prioritize self-care activities, and set realistic expectations for yourself.
Effective Strategies for Positive Communication
Communicating with someone who has dementia requires a shift in approach. The goal is no longer about exchanging information with perfect accuracy but about connecting with the person and ensuring they feel safe, heard, and loved. This means letting go of the need to be “right” and instead focusing on what is kind and supportive. Adopting a few key strategies can transform frustrating interactions into moments of connection, reducing stress for both you and your loved one. It’s about learning a new language—one based on patience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the changes their brain is experiencing.
Adopting a Supportive Mindset
Before you even speak, your mindset can set the tone for a positive interaction. Approaching your loved one with a supportive and flexible attitude is the foundation of effective communication. It involves recognizing the reality of their condition and adjusting your own expectations and reactions accordingly. This internal shift can prevent many conflicts before they even begin, creating a more peaceful environment. It’s about choosing compassion over correction and connection over conflict, which ultimately benefits everyone involved in the caregiving journey.
View memory loss as a disability
It can be helpful to think of memory loss as a disability, not a choice. As Alzheimer’s San Diego wisely puts it, asking someone with dementia to remember is like asking a blind person to see. This perspective shift can help you cultivate more patience and empathy. When your loved one can’t recall a recent conversation or event, it’s a symptom of their illness, not a personal failing or an attempt to frustrate you. Understanding this helps you respond with support rather than exasperation, preserving their dignity and your own emotional energy.
Take the blame to de-escalate conflict
In moments of confusion or disagreement, being right is less important than being kind. If your loved one insists on a reality that isn’t true, arguing will only create more distress. A simple phrase like, “I’m sorry, I must have forgotten,” can instantly de-escalate a tense situation. By taking the blame, you validate their feelings without engaging in a pointless debate. This technique prioritizes emotional harmony over factual accuracy, which is a crucial adjustment when caring for someone with dementia.
Step away from arguments to cool down
If you feel an argument starting, the best course of action is often to disengage. Continuing to push a point when your loved one is confused or agitated will not lead to a resolution. Instead, it will likely increase their anxiety and your frustration. Simply leaving the room for a few minutes can give both of you the space needed to cool down. When you return, you can redirect the conversation to a more pleasant topic, effectively resetting the emotional atmosphere.
Practical Communication Techniques
Beyond your mindset, specific communication techniques can make daily interactions much smoother. These practical tools are designed to reduce confusion and foster a sense of security for the person with dementia. They focus on simplifying information, providing clear cues, and using gentle redirection to avoid agitation. Mastering these techniques can feel like learning a new skill, but with practice, they become a natural part of your caregiving approach, helping you connect more effectively and lovingly with the person you are supporting.
Use distraction and redirection
When a person with dementia becomes fixated on a distressing thought or a difficult topic, distraction and redirection are your best allies. Instead of arguing about why they can’t go “home” or why they need to go to a doctor’s appointment, gently change the subject. You could offer a favorite snack, suggest listening to music, or point out something interesting outside the window. This technique acknowledges their feeling without dwelling on the source of the distress, guiding their attention toward something more positive and calming.
Repeat information with the exact same words
If you need to repeat something, resist the urge to rephrase it. For a person with dementia, hearing the same information phrased differently can sound like brand-new, conflicting information, which can be incredibly confusing. By repeating a sentence using the exact same words and a calm, reassuring tone, you give their brain a better chance to process what you’re saying. This simple habit creates consistency and can significantly reduce misunderstandings and the frustration that comes with them.
Use short, simple sentences
Long, complex sentences with multiple ideas can be overwhelming for someone with cognitive decline. To improve comprehension, break down your communication into short, simple sentences. Focus on one idea at a time. Before you speak, make sure you have their attention by making eye contact and saying their name gently. This approach gives them the best possible chance to understand your message, which in turn helps them feel more competent and less anxious in their interactions.
Preserving Dignity and Fostering Connection
Beyond the daily tasks and communication strategies, the heart of dementia care lies in preserving your loved one’s dignity and maintaining your connection. It’s about remembering the person they are beyond the diagnosis. Even as their cognitive abilities change, their emotional intelligence and need for love, respect, and purpose remain. Fostering this connection requires seeing them as a whole person and finding new ways to share moments of joy and meaning. This focus not only enhances their quality of life but can also make the caregiving journey more rewarding for you.
Encourage independence where possible
While dementia necessitates increasing levels of assistance, it’s vital to encourage independence wherever you can. Allowing your loved one to complete parts of a task, even if it’s imperfect or takes longer, helps them maintain a sense of purpose and self-worth. This could be as simple as letting them fold laundry, stir ingredients, or choose their own outfit. Remember, even in advanced stages, individuals can pick up on nonverbal cues. Treating them as capable and respecting their efforts fosters a positive emotional environment and honors their autonomy.
Remember the relationship beyond caregiving
It’s easy for a relationship to become defined solely by caregiving tasks—medication schedules, appointments, and personal care. When this happens, the connection you once shared can feel lost. Make a conscious effort to spend time together that isn’t focused on care. Share a laugh while watching a favorite old movie, listen to music from their youth, or simply sit together and hold hands. These moments remind both of you of your bond as spouses, partners, or family members, not just as caregiver and recipient.
Share positive memories and experiences
While short-term memory may be impaired, long-term memories often remain accessible for much longer. Tapping into these positive memories can be a powerful way to connect and improve well-being. Look through old photo albums, talk about cherished family stories, or play music from their past. This practice, often called reminiscence therapy, can stimulate mental activity and evoke feelings of happiness and comfort. It’s a wonderful way to validate their life experiences and share meaningful moments together in the present.
Support for the Caregiver
Caring for a loved one with dementia is a demanding role that can take a significant toll on your own mental, emotional, and physical health. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and trying to do it all alone is a recipe for exhaustion. Recognizing the strain of caregiving and actively seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength and a necessary step for sustainable care. Prioritizing your own well-being is essential, as you cannot pour from an empty cup. Building a strong support system is crucial for both you and the person you care for.
The Toll of Caregiving
The responsibilities of dementia care are constant and can lead to high levels of stress. Over time, this cumulative stress can impact every aspect of your life, from your health to your relationships and career. Many caregivers experience feelings of grief, guilt, and anger alongside love and dedication. These complex emotions are a normal part of the journey, but without an outlet, they can become overwhelming. Acknowledging the toll of caregiving is the first step toward finding healthy ways to cope and prevent burnout.
Recognizing caregiver burnout
Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. It can happen when you feel overwhelmed and emotionally drained by the demands of your role. Common signs include feeling tired most of the time, becoming easily irritated or angry, feeling hopeless, and withdrawing from friends and activities you once enjoyed. If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s a clear signal that you need more support. Recognizing the signs of caregiver burnout is critical to taking action before it completely depletes your ability to care for yourself and your loved one.
Seeking Professional Support
You don’t have to carry the weight of caregiving alone. A wide range of professional resources is available to provide guidance, relief, and emotional support. From local community groups to specialized therapy, getting help can provide you with new tools, a fresh perspective, and the reassurance that you are part of a larger community of people who understand what you’re going through. Reaching out is a proactive step toward maintaining your own health and resilience throughout your caregiving journey.
Caregiver support groups and resources
There are many places to turn for help. Your loved one’s doctor or a social worker can connect you with local resources, such as adult day programs or respite care services that provide temporary relief. Joining a caregiver support group, whether in-person or online, can also be incredibly beneficial. Sharing your experiences with others who are in a similar situation can reduce feelings of isolation, provide practical advice, and offer a space for emotional validation and encouragement.
How individual teletherapy can help
Therapy offers a confidential space to process the complex emotions that come with caregiving. At Blue Moon Senior Counseling, our licensed therapists specialize in helping caregivers manage stress, navigate feelings of grief and loss, and develop effective coping skills. Through individual teletherapy, you can receive support from the comfort and privacy of your own home, making it easier to fit into a demanding schedule. For many, this type of counseling is a Medicare Part B covered service, making professional mental health support both accessible and affordable.
Blue Moon Senior Counseling: Your Partner in Dementia Care
Caring for someone with dementia is a profound responsibility that requires patience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the challenges involved. At Blue Moon Senior Counseling, we understand the complexities of dementia caregiving and are here to support you every step of the way. Our team offers compassionate counseling tailored to the unique needs of seniors and their caregivers. Whether you’re struggling with caregiver burnout, navigating difficult emotions, or seeking guidance on effective caregiving strategies, we’re here to help. Contact us today, or call us at 630-896-7160 to learn more about how we can support you on your caregiving journey.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize kindness over correctness: Arguing, quizzing their memory, or pointing out mistakes can cause unnecessary distress. Instead, focus on validating their feelings and responding to the emotion behind their words to preserve their dignity.
- Simplify your communication approach: Use short sentences, offer one instruction at a time, and gently redirect difficult conversations. These practical strategies reduce confusion and help create a calmer, more supportive environment for your loved one.
- Make your own well-being a priority: The demands of caregiving can lead to burnout, so it is crucial to seek support for yourself. Reaching out to support groups or a professional therapist helps you manage stress and maintain your own health.
