Support Is a Two-Way Street
We actually have two themes this month. First, it’s National Family Caregivers Month, which celebrates, supports, and raises awareness about family caregivers across the country. So this month, we’ll be hosting our third annual Caring for Caregivers Virtual Summit, Getting UNStuck: Moving From Languishing to Flourishing, on November 16 and 17. Both days will feature sessions by professional facilitators on topics ranging from connectedness and empowerment to resiliency and gratitude.
Also this month, our regular Support Group curriculum will be covering topics related to the theme of collaboration, and this week, the topic is your support network.
This journey of life was not meant to be taken alone. We all need a strong support network for ourselves and each other. But as caregivers, we often feel alone in our journey – in our pain, our joys, and our caring. And although caregivers are most often occupied with providing support for others, we must realize that support is a two-way street, and that asking for help is a show of strength, not weakness.
For caregivers, having a strong support network for themselves is absolutely essential. There are some things that we just can’t manage alone, and choosing the right people to help us can make all the difference in getting our loved one – and us – through a crisis.
The first step is to identify WHAT your needs are, and the next step is to determine WHO can fill those needs for you. Here are five tools to help you find the right people to be in your support network:
Start with those who are closest to you. Who lifts you up, encourages you, and doesn’t judge?
Work with those who are like-minded. Who really gets you, thinks like you, and understands what’s important to you?
Seek out those who could be a mentor or coach. Find role models who guide and inspire you.
Actively network, and have patience. Step outside your comfort zone to meet new people, try new things, and be open to new experiences. Take the time to develop strong, caring relationships with new people.
Nurture your support group. Nothing can encourage continued support more than feeling appreciated.
As Teal Swan so eloquently says, “Having a support network in your life and being a part of other people’s support networks, means you can add their energy and their mental, emotional, and physical resources to your resiliency.”
When we allow others to help us, we give them the opportunity to show their kindness and compassion. When we do the same for others as part of a support network, we return the favor. In other words, having a strong support network is a win-win for YOU and for EVERYONE!