“What we resist persists” ~C.G. Jung
Intense and conflicting emotions go hand-in-hand with caregiving. But what to do with these feelings? Most importantly, we should notice and accept them without self-criticism. Feelings are what they are; they’re not good or bad, right or wrong. And, when feelings are “owned,” we’re less apt to act on them in hurtful ways or expend precious energy denying their existence, often through overeating, overworking, overspending or misusing drugs and alcohol.
Which of the following emotions have a familiar ring to you?
~Anxiety/Fear: The future is unknown for me, and the one receiving my care.
~Helplessness: No matter how much I do, there is still so much I cannot do!
~Anger: A sense of frustration and helplessness is often at the root of my anger.
~Resentful: Time for myself is no more; neither is time with friends and family.
~Guilt: I tell myself I’m not doing enough, or that I’ve been impatient.
~Sadness: Watching a patient or loved one struggle or decline is tough!
~Grief: Anticipating a death, I face my own mortality, and grieve for prior losses.
Name some other emotions you’ve experienced recently!
Warm Regards,
Rebecca Hauder RN, LCPC