A Guide on How to Survive the Holidays as a Caregiver

This article was written by our social media intern, Jazmyn.

Hi, I’m Jazmyn, and I am OBSESSED with this time of year. But, as someone who is the daughter of a single mother, I empathize with how stressful it can be at times being a caregiver while also having to do so many other activities. It’s a lot and even more so when it’s a time of giving and you already give so much!

It’s that time of year, and we want you to make it through even though we know you’re already killing it as a caregiver. When it comes to holiday time, there’s a lot to balance. Not only do you have to worry about entertaining when your second cousin twice removed decides to come over at the last minute, but your caregiving and professional responsibilities don’t take a vacation just because it’s the holidays. 

First things first, take care of yourself. I know it’s cliche to say, but it is important. If you’re not taking care of yourself, you’re not of any use to the people around you who care about you. On a plane, you put your oxygen mask on first, right? Not the person that’s three rows ahead of you, even if they are family. 70% of caregivers agreed that they need regular mental/emotional health breaks, and it’s important to carve out time for yourself during what can be a stressful period. 

Next, don’t forget to ask for help! It’s easy to assume that you have to take on the entire workload by yourself, but that’s certainly not the case. Instead of making a complicated dessert that will take you forever to make, why not ask your sister to stop by the store and pick some up? Don’t be afraid to delegate; that’s what family is there for, and you’ll feel better after it’s done.

Even if they say no, shame on them if they do, then you can ask another family member. Like the girlfriend of the cousin you could’ve sworn he’s broken up with three times already. At least put her to work and take some stress off yourself. 

Hear me out on this next one. How about this year instead of taking on the burden to cook the holiday meal, instead you go and eat out? Not only do you get to enjoy quality time with your family, but you also get to fully relax. You don’t have to worry if people are enjoying the food that you’ve been cooking since yesterday. You don’t have to worry about checking on the turkey every hour to make sure it will actually be ready by the time you told everyone to be at your house. 

I know you’re shocked to hear it because home-cooked meals are thought to be the best when it comes to the holiday season. But, taking this year off will not be a huge deal. If any of your family members have an issue with it, ask them if they’d rather cook or host instead and watch how quickly they think eating out is a better idea. You’d be surprised!

At the end of the day, there’s no need to wear yourself out around the holidays. No matter what you celebrate, this should be a happy time, and being a caregiver certainly shouldn’t change that. 65% of caregivers say they struggle with emotional and physical fatigue, work-caregiving balance, and time for themselves. Do something for yourself to make it all worth it. For instance, Christmas decorations are a way that I relax when it comes this year. Whether it’s my own home or driving around my neighborhood to look at everyone else’s, they bring me so much joy. 

Find out what brings you joy. Maybe it’s a spa day. However, sometimes taking a full day is just not possible. 56% of caregivers acknowledged that taking a day off from their responsibilities is unrealistic for them so you might have to improvise when it comes to your joy. Maybe it’s watching your favorite movie with no interruptions (and indulging in buttery popcorn that tastes so good the calories don’t count). No matter what it is, find some time to enjoy and give yourself the joy that you are trying to bring to everyone else.

This is a busy time of year, and you should be at your best. We want that for you! You deserve it and so much more!