Care of the Care Partner
Multiple myeloma is a chronic condition that impacts the person with the diagnosis and their loved ones, especially those involved in caregiving. Care partners provide support in many ways, finding the role both gratifying and stressful. While focusing on their loved ones’ needs, care partners can neglect their own well-being, potentially leading to burnout or health issues. Here are tips to help care partners maintain their own health:
Self-care is not selfish
Taking time for yourself doesn’t diminish the love you have for the person you’re helping. It can improve the care you provide. By recharging, you return more refreshed and ready to support your loved one. Sometimes, giving yourself permission is the first step to self-care.
Care partners have feelings, too
A diagnosis of myeloma brings a spectrum of emotions that change over time and differ for each person. Accept your feelings without judgment. They are valid. Communicate with your partner and seek support through spiritual communities, counseling, or contact the IMF care partner support group carepartner@imfsupport.org to build resilience for the emotions that naturally come with caregiving.
Balance care with self-care
Self-care reduces anxiety, promotes physical wellness, and improves decision-making. Physical exercise enhances both mental and physical health while improving sleep quality, which supports mental clarity for daily activities. Incorporating activities that promote life-balance is important for the long-term.
Care partners can have care partners
Many people struggle to ask for help due to societal or personal expectations. Remember that you don’t have to do everything yourself. Build your own support network of family, friends, and community resources.
Find your source of energy
Whether walking in nature, reading, creating art, connecting with friends, or revisiting a hobby –do what refuels your soul. You’ll feel better, and your partner will notice the difference.
Turn
down
the “noise”
When myeloma enters the picture, it forces re-evaluation of priorities. Reduce stress by eliminating unnecessary commitments and “noise” in your life. Only you and your partner can decide what’s truly essential.
Recognize burnout warning signs
Watch for burnout: exhaustion, irritability, feeling detached from your role, neglecting your own needs, changes in sleep patterns, or increased susceptibility to illness. If you notice these signs, take them seriously. Your self-care needs attention.
Practice daily renewal
Take regular breaks just for you. Maintain good nutrition, physical activity, and rest. Start a gratitude journal of positive moments. Recall cherished memories and plan future events that bring you joy in both the anticipation and the participation.
Resources for care partners
Reach out to the IMF Care Partner Support Group at carepartner@imfsupport.org, use the QR code below, or visit carepartners.myeloma.org for more information about available care partner resources from the IMF and from other national organizations. myeloma.org
As always, the IMF urges you to discuss all medical issues with your doctor and to contact the IMF InfoLine with your myeloma-related questions and concerns at 1.818.487.7455 or InfoLine@myelomaorg .