Ashley Figarola is a Licensed Professional Counselor who resides in the New Orleans Metro Area. Ashley has an interest in working with adults and older adults going through life transitions. Ashley is in network with Medicare and many other commercial insurance plans. Ashley can be booked online or by phone 504-285-8009
“There are only four kinds of people in this world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregiving, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.”
-Rosalynn Carter, Former First Lady of the United States
According to Psychology Today, a caregiver is “Someone who helps an individual meet their daily needs due to illness, injury, disability, or age.” Caregivers are often managing multiple roles in their lives. Various feelings can be present in the process of caregiving. Someone might experience frustration with their loved ones or guilt that they are not doing more to contribute.
Caregivers often neglect their own needs while focusing on others. However, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Here are a few self-care strategies that can help sustain your energy and well-being:
Prioritize sleep, as rest is essential to physical and emotional resilience.
Incorporate gentle exercise—something as simple as a short walk or a yoga class can help reduce stress.
Engage in social support such as meeting a friend for lunch.
Make time for yourself to do something you enjoy.
Support groups offer a safe space to share experiences, gain perspective, and learn coping strategies from others in similar roles.
Individual therapy offers a safe, private space where you can talk through feelings like guilt, grief, or resentment—and discover supportive, lasting strategies for caregiving.
Caregiving is an act of deep compassion, but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your own well-being. By prioritizing support and self-care, you can be there for others while still showing up for yourself.
The National Institute on Aging can also provide helpful and practical resources.
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/caregiving
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/caregiving/take-care-yourself-caregiver
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