Topic 5:  Self-care strategies to promote optimal wellbeing

Objective:  To inform carers of the impact of being a carer and to discuss strategies for how carers can look after themselves at this time. 

The content offered in Topic 5 will focus on:

• The impact of caring for someone with a terminal illness (refer to pages 15-16 of the guidebook)
• Acknowledge that caregiving can be extremely challenging
• Outline the common positive aspects of caring (refer to page 16 of the guidebook)
• How to look after yourself (refer to Chapter 3 of the guidebook)
• Tips for reducing carer levels of stress e.g. exercise, sleep and diet (refer to the relaxation CD and pamphlets:  Reduce Stress and Sleep Better)
• Tips on how to problem solve and prioritise
• Importance of carer respite e.g. volunteer relief
• Accessing support from family and friends

Ask the group for examples of strategies they have used to manage their health

Activity:  Do a five-minute relaxation using the relaxation CD.

PowerPoint slides 28-33 should be used to discuss this topic.