Mental Health Day for Caregivers

Wilted Daughter

I have tried to take breaks, when I leave the house it's never long enough. I've tried day trips (going to area resorts/pools) to enjoy the amenities, but since I can not stay overnight it's not fulfilling and $$$. Most properties in the area do not offer 'day passes' for amenities only, so I pay for full property access with partial usage. 

Until I find a way to get more relaxation away from home with out responsibilities (full day off), I will continue to struggle with craving out some time for my mental health. I need more than a day...breakcation!!!

LauraJH

I am brand new to the forum, and your message quickly drew my attention.  I work full time at home while helping my 86 yr old mom with Alzheimer's and my disabled husband on week 6 of pneumonia.  I just took a "mental afternoon" from work and went to get my hair done.  I had to cancel 2 appts because of unplanned dr. visits, so it was nice to get out for the afternoon. My dad is able to sit with mom so I can get away for a few hours. Thankfully my supervisor did not ask for details of my "mental health appt.". We moved in with my parents in August 2019, and my husband's health has been down since Memorial Day 2022.  I keep telling myself "I signed up for this" when I agreed to move in, but we didn't think mom would last 3 years. I think we have at least 2 more years, then we will be taking care of my dad, all while my husband declines from Parkinson's.  My siblings are a great support, coming over during the week with meals. I need to take the opportunity when they are here to get out for a few hours. So thank you for letting me know that needing "mental health" time for myself is normal, and I should not feel guilty about needing a change of scenery every once in awhile.

Wilted Daughter

Hi LauraJH,

Welcome to the forum. We all need a break from responsibilities from time to time...isn't that what vacations, personal days, etc. were designed to achieve. Taking a break to rejuvenate should be incorporated into our schedules, but it's easier said than done for me.

I am able to take a few hours here & there but feel the need to stay away longer. I want more than a day and wait for the opportunity to go on an overnight or longer. I have 2 nights, planned in August...just need to find someone to stay with mom at night and check in during the days. The planning for care in my absence is the most stressful. 

I keep saying that I deserve a break today & someday my desired break will come. 

Take care