Tiredness

Coping with the eventual loss of a family member or friend, while continuing to care for other family members, is physically and emotionally exhausting. Caring for someone who endures a long period of decline before death is also exhausting. If possible, you should try to leave some energy in reserve, pacing yourself in your care giving. Otherwise, you may not be able to provide support to the patient throughout the entire course of illness. Family members need to give themselves permission to take care of themselves, as well as the patient. Scheduling time to enjoy some aspect of life each week is one way to try to gain back some energy, and practice self-care.

Please see Caring for Yourself.