Getting respite, or a break, is important for several reasons. It reduces stress, gives you an opportunity for self-care, and improves mental health by reducing feelings of anxiety and depression. However, it can be a challenge if you are a caregiver and especially if you have a child who requires your help, supervision, or attention all the time.
Here are some tips to help you get respite, even for just a few minutes a day:
Ask for help: Reach out to family, friends, or community organizations for assistance with childcare or other responsibilities.
Take short breaks: Find pockets of time throughout the day to step away from your responsibilities. This might need to be during lunch or after the kids go to bed, but that’s okay. Use this time to engage in activities that bring you joy, such as reading a book, doing yoga, or listening to music.
Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities that nourish your body and soul, such as taking a bath, meditating, or getting a massage.
Practice mindfulness: And hey, if you only have a few minutes for mindfulness, we have a video on mindfulness activities that you can do in 5 minutes.
Utilize technology: Use apps or websites that provide guided meditations or relaxation exercises to help you unwind in just a few minutes.
Find a support group: Connect with other caregivers or parents to share experiences and offer each other support and encouragement.
Remember that taking a break doesn't mean that you're neglecting your responsibilities but rather that you're taking care of yourself so that you can be more effective in meeting those responsibilities. It is, therefore, important to make time for respite and prioritize your own needs.
Remember to also check out the video guide "Getting respite - even a few minutes a day" on the Tracto app.
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Watch the full video guide in the Tracto app
Our video guides are created by experts in the field of neurodiversity and include parent-led strategies that improve communication skills, coping skills, independence, challenging behaviors, and many more.
How to use Tracto
How does Tracto help me with this?
Practice makes progress! If we are used to not taking time for ourselves, it is going to take some practice to build a new habit. Set a reminder on Tracto to help you make sure that you are getting respite. And, while you are at it, why not do a quick journal entry to jot down how you are feeling after having respite?
Get the FREE Tracto app to access our expert-designed tools such as tracking, journaling, routine reminders, and more video guides.
