Self-care

Caregivers often prioritize the needs of their loved ones over their own, leading to burnout, stress, and health issues. Self-care is crucial for caregivers of individuals with special needs. Prioritizing self-care, such as exercise and hobbies, helps reduce stress and prevent burnout. Taking breaks and seeking support can enhance resilience, leading to better care for their loved ones. Ultimately, self-care is essential for the well-being of both caregivers and those they support. 

 

CDLS

Websites

Headspace.com

Headspace.com is a well-known meditation and mental health app. Visitors can read articles about meditation, stress, mindfulness, and sleep-related articles. They also offer a list of global mental health resources to guide users in seeking help.

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Self-Compassion.org

Research indicates that self-compassion is one of the most powerful sources of coping and resilience we have available to us. This website offers information and resources about self-compassion.

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Books

Article
101 Ways to Be Less Stressed: Simple Self-Care Strategies to Boost Your Mind, Mood, and Mental Health

Neuroscientist, Dr. Caroline Leaf, offers many strategies to help manage stress more effectively.

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Article
The Set Boundaries Workbook: Practical Exercises for Understanding Your Needs and Setting Healthy Limits

Therapist and relationship expert, Nedra Glover Tawwab, provides an accessible, step-by-step resource for setting, communicating, and enforcing healthy boundaries at home, at work, and in life.

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Article
Better Than Ok: Finding Joy as a Special-Needs Parent

In her down-to-earth way, author Kelly Mantoan shares the steps parents need to take to shift their focus away from the negatives of a diagnosis and towards acceptance, renewed faith, and joy.

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It’s OK to release yourself from the expectation of others.”