Can You Feel Better?

Yesterday, on Table Talk, we discussed one of the answers you gave to our question: If you could, what would you change about your caregiving situation? (You can listen to our show via the player, at the end of this post.)

You said: I would change how I feel about all this–I wish I felt better about caregiving.

I wish I could help you feel better, but I do want to help you NOT FEEL GUILTY about how you feel. Your feelings are your prerogative; you have every right to those feelings. Your guilt is really a judgment about your feelings. And, you probably feel judged by so many already; why add yourself to the mix?

So, while I can’t help you feel better, I hope I’ve released you from guilt. And, I can offer you comfort in knowing you are not alone! To connect with other family caregivers who understand, consider:

• Joining one of our online support groups.
• Venting on Fridays at 3 p.m. on Twitter; use #carevent
  
• Telling us what you don’t feel comfortable telling others.

And, check out our November Book Club selection: “A Happy You: Your Ultimate Prescription For Happiness” by Dr. Elizabeth R. Lombardo. Dr. Lombardo joins us for our discussion on Your Caregiving Journey, which will take November 25 at 3 p.m. CT. You can purchase Dr. Lombardo’s book in our store. And, keep in mind that happiness spreads, so surround yourself with happy others.

Other books which may offer comfort include:

• “An Uncertain Inheritance: Writers on Caring for Family”. The book’s editor, Nell Casey, joined us for a  live discussion on Your Caregiving Journey. You also can purchase this book in our store.
• “Take Comfort, Reflections of Hope for Caregivers” by me. You can listen to my book reading here and buy the book here.
• “Heart Thoughts” by Louise L. Hay, also available in our store.

Next week on Table Talk: What are your Thanksgiving traditions? Share the good, the bad and the ugly; email Denise so you can be a guest!

Related articles

• Facing Fears (caregiving.com)
• Happy National Family Caregivers Month! (caregiving.com)
• What Will Be Your Caregiving Footprint? (caregiving.com)
• November Challenge: Move It! (caregiving.com)
• When All Feels Lost, Believe (caregiving.com)
• Healing Relationships, Part 1 (caregiving.com)

One Response to “Can You Feel Better?”

1. donna ryan says:

   November 15, 2009 at 9:38 pm

   i just listened to the audio of your reflections book and i sit here with tears in my eyes. I think you most definately should write a second book just like this. I was going to have my husband order this for me for christmas but instead will be ordering it myself tomorrow. We hear as children how sticks and stones can break our bones but words could never hurt us…but that is so untrue. it is great to teach this line and to try to believe it but unfortunately negative words sometimes do hurt. the words i heard just now were beautiful words of healing. choosing the right words carefully is so important as they can both hurt and heal. this book sounds like healing for all of us when we hear those hurtful words or experience the painful times. If you havent listened to this take the time to….you wont be sorry

   Reply