6. Support for you the carer > Spiritual care support
Spiritual care support
5) Expressions of spirituality
Time out. The physical aspect of caring has many daily distractions and responsibilities. To be able to reflect on your beliefs, whatever they are, you may need help with the physical needs of caring first. To give yourself the time away from chores and duties is important. Being a carer can be demanding. Get help so you can take time out to make sense of what has happened.
Reflection is a good place to start. Take time to consolidate thoughts, relax, unwind, meditate or pray if this is what you feel you need most. You can do this in many ways. Even simple tasks like walking the dog, cooking or other creative hobby can free your mind to give you space to reflect.
Journaling/Writing a diary To help yourself make sense of your inner feelings. For some people it can help to write down these thoughts even if you do not share them with anyone.
Expression through art, music or writing may be a way to help you. Being creative can be an alternative way to express your thoughts and feelings without necessarily speaking to someone directly.
A trusted listener who could be a close friend, a pastoral worker from a local faith community or even a sympathetic stranger on an advice line could help you to “off load” without being judgemental or interfering.
Presence of someone being near by who just sits with you quietly. Sometimes words are not necessary. Someone can offer a touch on the hand or an arm around you to comfort you at a moment in time which is difficult for you.
