Topic Tuesday // Self Care for Carers // Tues 20th July, 7:00-8:30PM AEST

[Mindy911]

✨Thank you✨

[znp]

Yes, and also not falling into the trap of trying to be a therapist. My overcaring approach led to significant problems with my son a few years ago. Doing the Family Connections program made a huge difference to me.

[SJT63]

I always feel very selfish when I do things just for me. I know it's not logical.

[znp]

You have a right to care for yourself too. I know that exhausted feeling of caring for someone with BPD. Have you done the Helping Minds Family Connections course?

[Shaz51]

hello @Jelly 

my mr shaz has Bipolar 2 and i have cancelled lots of social outing at the last minute , and i have felt guilty but it is what our loved ones need at that moment xoxo

[bipolarbunny]

I'm the same Shazzy @Shaz51  self care for me is an ongoing learning journey.

My self care is generally:

• writing poetry

• going for a run or walk

• riding my bike

• playing guitar

• singing

• listening to music

• art therapy

• watching a movie/comedy tv

• a steaming hot shower

• favourite meal

• chocolate ice cream

• nanna nap

BB 🐰💙

[TideisTurning]

That's a very relatable feeling @SJT63 and one you're not alone with! I don't know how many loved ones have told me that putting myself first or taking care of me is not selfish. It's a hard lesson, but something I've learnt is that you can't take care of others unless you take care of yourself first 😊

[Daisydreamer]

Hi @Jelly,

I think that is such an important one- cancelling plans. Sometimes we just need some time.

What is your relationship with self care?

I've started to build more self care in my life and feel like I have a good relationship with self care. But it wasn't always that way, I used to feel guilty for doing self care. Now I know that to be the best support I can be to others, I need to first look after myself 

And if you are building self care into your day, what do you enjoy doing for self care? (feel free to share as many creative ideas as you would like)

• Art projects
• Walks
• Photography
• Taking a bath
• Saying no when I need to
• Setting boundaries with friends and family
• Having rituals to log on and log off work
• Cleaning the house
• Taking "me" time 
• Writing in my strengths journal
• Being by the water 
• Bushwalking

[Emelia8]

Thanks @Daisydreamer ... definitely interested in being here for the grief topic tuesday.

[Shaz51]

yes @SJT63  it has taken me a long time to my friend  to relize we need self care