Please read about our journey over the past 4 years. LO passed away last week. Took care of lo for 4 years. Was on hospice and passed away at our house. We are physically, emotionally and mentally exhausted. Is this normal? We did our best, but is it normal to wonder if we did our best. Is it normal to wonder if we will ever be normal again. I want to thank everyone who responded to my questions and concerns over the past 4 years. This sight was an invaluable resource. Any advice on how to pick up the pieces so to speak would be appreciated. Cannot explain how tired we are.
Do something refreshing for yourselves.
It can be something simple. My son painted my room, replaced outlet covers and light switches (from tan to white), and installed new baseboard heaters, and I replaced the carpet. The room got a total refresh. I replaced my old furniture with my mom's bedroom set and got new curtains. I now have transformed a room of sadness into a bright and beautiful calming place.
Or, if the budget allows, start planning a trip to a place that holds good memories or explore somewhere new.
You will get through this.
Great idea!
in fact, read on some blog how this woman recreated their rather masculine bedroom and reclaimed it after her husband died.
She did spectacular job!
I am sorry for your loss, but I’m thankful that you no longer carry that heavy burden. I wish you peace.
I am sorry for you loss
Mental exhaustion begins long time before final event I believe. As there is roller coaster, turmoil, uncertainty and grief.
In fact, I am already needing to rebuild my life I.e grief for things lost and concentrate on what is ahead. Not easy but every little thing of doing something for myself helps.
Therapist asked me this week what would I do right now if I could do anything. Easy, no hesitation. I would pack suitcases and buy around the world ticket.
She said plan and visualize it.
It will not happen now.
But making plans helps.
Spoil yourself if you can. Spa weekend?
Maybe nice Caribbean cruise?
So rest now and don't entertain the woulda, coulda, shoulda's as we all do the very best we can do and that has to be enough.
Your loved one knew that you did your best and that you loved them and that in the end is all that matters.
I wish you well in now taking care of yourself and getting the proper rest you need to get on with living and enjoying your life.
God bless you.
You have invested years of your life in being a caregiver. It has been your choice.
You are exhausted now, and in a state both of great change for your lives, and of exhaustion.
Please give yourself time. This is like anything very hard. There is a time when it is over of PTSD. You have post traumatic shock as certain as anyone battling cancer with surgery and treatments, any soldier sent to battle.
Give yourself time. Remember to remember the humor, the good times, and all you learned as you gave of yourselves.
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