As Carers, we often find ourselves in situations where money is tight; we seem to be busy all the time and have very little time or money for ourselves.
We never know what tomorrow brings and the demands on us. Some of us live week to week on our Carer’s Allowance with no savings for ourselves or a rainy day.
Our focus is always on being a Carer, often at the expense of our own health.
Unfortunately, many Carers I know take on unnecessary risks because they simply cannot afford to pay someone else to help. What I’m talking about is our physical health; whether it’s fixing something at home, tackling heavy gardening jobs, or attempting DIY repairs, we often push ourselves to do things we shouldn’t.
I know, I’ve been there and its simply not worth it.
We must constantly remember that what we do impacts us and the person we care for.
I know it’s upsetting—it can feel like we don’t have the luxury of slowing down or saying NO, even saying no to wanting to do some odd jobs. But sometimes, not doing something is the wisest and most caring decision you can make for yourself and your child.
I’ve learned this lesson the hard way through my own experience. After two operations, I’ve come to realise how crucial recovery and self-care is for me. These days, I’ve trained myself to look at that overgrown garden, that broken rail, or those messy corners and I say:
“It can wait.”
It’s not easy—I know it’s not—but choosing to protect my health means that I have no pain, and I can continue giving my best to the person who depends most on me. My son, David.
So, I urge you: before you take on a risky task because you feel like you have no other option, stop and think.
Ask yourself, “If I hurt myself, what will that mean? Let’s be realistic here:” We don’t live “normal” lives, and the stakes are higher for us. It’s okay to take a step back and say, “Not today.”
Take care of yourselves, Carers—you matter too.
If you would like to let me know your thoughts on this article, then email me on dolores@financialwellbeing.ie