January is the perfect time to focus on wellness and self-care, especially for transplant families who often experience additional stress due to their medically critical child. Whether
your child is inpatient or doing well, it's important to remember to take care of yourself and your mental health. Here are a few tips to help you prioritize your own wellness:
Get adequate sleep. Sleep is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Make sure you're getting enough rest each night so that you can stay focused and energized.
Exercise. Exercise helps to reduce stress, increase energy levels, and boost your mood. Even if you can only squeeze in a few minutes of exercise each day, it can make a big difference. If you are struggling to find ways to exercise while your child is in the hospital, try walking a few laps inside the perimeter of the building or using the stairs when you can.
Connect with others. Don't be afraid to reach out for emotional support when you need it. Talking to friends, family, or a mental health professional can help you work through your worries and build your resilience.
Take a break. Take time to do something you enjoy, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Enjoy a cup of tea, read a book, or take a walk outside.
Make time for yourself. Schedule time each day to do something that brings you joy. Whether it’s yoga, reading, or just zoning out watching videos, make sure to give yourself some “me time.”
Focusing on your own wellness can ensure that you’re in the best possible position to care for your medically critical child. The old adage says that you have to care for yourself before you can give to others. Since self-care is essential for transplant families, January is the perfect time to start.
Be sure to watch for more tips on our social media this month and for wellness classes to appear in our app when launched.