For Caregivers who have Littles with mental illnesses
I personally suffer from mental illnesses, and I know how hard it can be to take care of yourself when you’re depressed, anxious, etc. Sometimes you need a helping hand. Caregivers are wonderful people do be just that. So here are some things I’ve learned from years of therapy, psychiatry, hospitalizations, and personal research.
- sunlight is more important than you think. Encourage your little to go outside. If they can’t for scheduling reasons, or it is difficult to do so due to a handicap, you can get lamps that simulate sunlight. I have one, I use it during the winter when there’s a lot fewer light hours in the day. If you search therapy light dozens of results will come up.
- a healthy body helps to build a healthy mind. It’s easy when you’re not feeling well to just stick to fattening comfort food. Make sure your little is eating enough nutrients. Fruits can help a sweet tooth, and veggies will sub for crispy chips.
- water water water. There is not a single part of your body that water doesn’t help. Keep your littles favorite cup filled with water to keep them hydrated. It helps muscle soreness/weakness, digestive system, and can help you feel more awake and alert.
- keep them on top of their meds. Remembering to take meds is hard. Sometimes wanting to take meds is hard. Encourage them to take them everyday. Don’t punish them for forgetting, or they won’t want to tell you if they do.
- find calming tactics. This could be counting, calming bottles, breathing exercises, or anything else that may help them relax in a moment of panic and anxiety.
- get them moving. Physical activity releases endorphins, which is a natural way to get a “high” that improves your physical and mental health. Even just a short walk will get their heart rate up.
- natural remedies. If your little isn’t a fan of pharmaceuticals, or needs an extra kick, natural remedies could be the answer. After hearing stories of it working wonders, I recently started cbd hemp oil called Charlotte’s Web. Although it’s made from Marijuana, it has no psychoactive features. It’s something to look into.
- more natural remedies. Essential oils can also be great. Scents like lavender and eucalyptus are proven to calm the brain. You can get lotions with those scents, candles, oil diffusers, or simply put a drop on your finger an apply it to the tip of your nose.
- be careful with substances. Drugs (including nicotine and caffeine) and alcohol can increase depression and psychotic thoughts and behaviors. Although they may help in the moment, overall they cause further issues.
- and of course most importantly make sure your little feels loved and wanted. Constantly remind them how special they are to you, how proud of them you are, and how great their doing, no matter how simple of thing.
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