5 Simple But Important Ways to Support Your Self-Care
5 rewarding ways to help you reclaim your self-care when supporting a loved one living with mental health or substance use issues
It’s hard to take care of yourself when you’re taking care of a loved one with mental health or substance use issues. Often women neglect their own self-care because their focus is kept on someone they love. We’ve all heard, you can’t pour from an empty cup. But what steps can you take to begin reclaiming your self-care?
Through my work at NAMI, SMART Recovery, and as a family member, I’ve witnessed first-hand how hard it is to support a loved one during their struggle with mental health or substance use issues. I’ve also witnessed various ways those who are giving so much of themselves have taken steps to reclaim their self-care and the positive results of that investment.
Below, I’ve shared five ideas on how you can begin today to prioritize your own well-being, which can ultimately improve your relationship with your loved one.
5 Actionable Steps to Reclaim Your Self-Care
Manage stress- Find activities that help you relax and unwind, such as nature walks, reading, napping, listening to music, spending time with friends, exercising—anything that helps you de-stress in a healthy way.
Prioritize “me” time- Make time for yourself when you're not responsible for anyone else. Who can you recruit to help support you for respite care if needed while you’re away? Give yourself permission for this much- needed break.
Establish boundaries. Identify draining or concerning aspects of your relationship with your loved one that you can control, then set boundaries. This could involve limits on phone calls, specific times for discussions (excluding emergencies), or boundaries around financial matters, treatment decisions, living arrangements, or substance use.
Practice gratitude- Acknowledge the positives in your life every day. Even on tough days, try to find at least one thing you're thankful for—it could be as simple as a refreshing glass of water. Cultivating gratitude can shift your perspective and uplift your spirits.
Join a support group- Explore local groups tailored to support family members of individuals living with mental health or substance use issues. Organizations like NAMI, SMART Recovery, or helplines (such as 211) can guide you to these valuable resources. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide invaluable support and insights.
Not sure where to start? Discover your path to self-care.
While these sound nice in theory, sometimes it’s hard to take the first step. I encourage you … just pick one and get started! Let's walk this journey together. Schedule a free consultation today to explore how coaching can support you in creating a plan and realizing the positive changes in your life.
Need more guidance? I can help. My name is Christi Alicea, and I work with women who have gotten lost in their loved one’s mental health or substance use struggle and have put their own self-care on the back burner.
I’d love to meet with you on my free 30-minute discovery call and talk about ways we can work together to create a plan for your self-care that supports a happier you. I look forward to meeting you!