If you have a loved one struggling with addiction or mental health struggles, you may notice that it can affect you as well, both mentally and physically. When we see someone we care about struggling, our instinct is to help and support them. We naturally want to take away their pain, do the work for them, and alleviate their discomfort. When we fail to also focus on our own needs, it can become increasingly easy to become burned out and exhausted. You cannot fully help another person until you help yourself. To avoid burnout, keep the following suggestions in mind.
Develop Healthy Sleep Habits
When we worry about others, it can easily affect our sleeping patterns. Work on maintaining your normal sleep schedule. Try to go to sleep around the same time each night, and wake up at the same time every morning.
Pencil in Time for Yourself
You need to find time for yourself. If you find your schedule full, try to block out times you can dedicate to yourself. For some, that time may look like doing activities such as hiking, walks, swimming, or exploring new places, while others may find more peace in reading, artistic activities, or gardening. Whatever helps you relax and enjoy yourself is a beneficial and good activity to do.
Establish Healthy Boundaries
Establishing boundaries will help you to maintain your mental health and overall well-being. Often we want to help our loved one in any way possible. However, try to remember that the boundaries you are creating benefit not only you but your loved one as well. When you create healthy boundaries, it can help your loved one reach out for the professional help that they need.
It can be easy to feel burned out when a loved one faces addiction or mental health challenges. We want to take away their pain, remove their discomfort, and help them face their fears. Many of us wish we could simply do the work for them. However, it is crucial to remember to take care of yourself as well. Schedule time to do things that help you refresh and recharge. Here at The Guest House, we know that addiction and mental health challenges can impact the entire family. We are here to help you and support you. Call us today to learn more about our different treatment options at (855) 483-7800.