Care for the Caregiver

One of the main things that affect individuals caring for a loved one suffering from Glioblastoma is the huge amount of time spent on that care: it becomes overwhelming. From handling anxiety to managing burnout to making sure you’re getting enough sleep and building a good relationship with medical services providers of your own, today’s guest has the insight you can use. Dr. Stephanie Silberman is a sleep psychologist with a great deal of experience working with caregivers, she is here to talk to us today about taking care of yourself while you’re taking care of a loved one.  Hear us talk about: Why burnout is so common among glioblastoma caregivers. The people who need care need a lot of it, and that takes a lot of time - and a huge adjustment of normal routines. Dr. Silberman talks about why it’s critical to continue to prioritize self-care and normal activities. The extra difficulties that come from being a sole caregiver. Often caregivers don’t want to be a burden on their friends and families. “People like to help others,” Dr. Silberman argues. People are more than happy to support a sole caregiver - friends, distant family, community and even specific organizations are there to provide support.  The many benefits of therapy for helping to process the diagnosis and the realities of caregiving. Being open to receiving that kind of professional help can be a major benefit, and have impacts that go beyond the immediate situation. Where boundaries can and should exist in the caregiving relationship- between the patient and caregiver, and the caregiver and the rest of the world. Specific techniques for anxiety that caregivers can help bring some peace, and significantly more relaxation. Sleep is also imperative and Dr. Silberman shares how your sleep can impact your emotion and cognition as well as your physical wellbeing. How we can be damaging our sleep without realizing it, and some of the steps to take to prevent occasional insomnia from becoming chronic. Dr. Silberman also talks about how it’s important to try non-pharmacological methods first, as medications that help you sleep can cause dependence.  Why journaling can be very helpful - but can also be damaging if you’re approaching it from the wrong angle, or without a specific goal. How to evaluate a relationship with a new medical services provider - the person who is supposed to be helping you should understand you, care about your story and make you feel comfortable. Dr. Silberman notes it is also important to make sure you are investing enough time to really establish a fit. Resources Dr. Stephanie Silberman on the web Facebook Twitter The Insomnia Workbook