As a young woman, I had no knowledge or awareness of the terms Caregiver or Respite Care. However, after having three babies in three-and-a-half years, I was feeling undone by the unrelenting responsibilities of motherhood. 

One day, when the two little ones were still in diapers, and the oldest one was creating messes faster than I could clean them up, I decided in order to maintain my emotional equilibrium, I needed to identify something I enjoyed every day. When I realized that naps and bedtime were the only events I looked forward to, I felt like a total failure as a mom.  

Looking back, I now realize I wasn’t a failure. I was overwhelmed. 

Finally, I hired a babysitter for a few hours two times a week. She came to the house long enough for me to go to the grocery store by myself, occasionally have lunch with my mother, or go shopping with a friend. I discovered that having a little time away from my children helped me be a more patient and loving mother when I was with them. 

In many ways, being a caregiver is like being a parent to small children. You love them and want to take care of them, but that doesn’t mean you spending 24 hours a day with them is the best thing for you or your care receiver. 

Taking a physical, mental, and emotional break from your care receiver is not selfish. It is a critical survival strategy. 

Thought for the Day 

"Respite care is not selfish. A little time away will benefit me and my care receiver."