COUNCIL ON AGING - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA therefore the feeling of relief at the end is normal and natural. The emotions can feel wrong or trigger feelings of guilt, it is a natural response at the end of a stressful situation. n Yearning: Wishing for days past or longing for the present or future to look different than how you expected. How to Handle Emotions - It can be difficult in a time of grief or loss to take care of yourself but treat yourself with kindness with the suggestions below. Give yourself time: There is not a timetable for grief. Everyone will experience it differently. It takes time to heal so be patient with yourself. Journal: Taking the time to write down your thoughts and struggles can be a therapeutic exercise. You can combine this with a gratitude practice of writing things down you are grateful for to help bring yourself to a feeling of peace. Talk about it: Sharing how you are feeling with trusted family or friends is often much better than keeping to yourself or trying to heal alone. Seek counseling: Find a therapist to work through emotions. They can help you unwind some of the emotions you are feeling in a space that is non-judgmental and confidential. Although there are many difficult emotions that often accompany caregiving, there is also something very special and sacred about caring for another. Caregiving is also an opportunity to learn so much about yourself, and your capacity for loving another. There is a very intimate vulnerability that it takes to be a caregiver, and to be a care receiver. Caregiving can be very rewarding and serve as an opportunity to spend time with your loved one you otherwise might not have, and caregiving never lasts forever, so take good care of yourself during your caregiving journey so that you can enjoy the beauty of it too. Experiencing grief is a natural emotion that makes us human - as a caregiver, it's up to you to allow the feelings to surface, manage your feelings, and validate what's happening. The Orange County Caregiver Resource Center has resources to help you. For additional information call 714446-5030 or visit: https://www.caregiveroc.org Articles & excerpts reprinted with permission from the Caregiver Resource Center OC. The Caregiver Resource Center OC is part of a statewide program that serves as a free resource for caregivers in California. For additional information call 1-800543-8312 or visit www.caregiveroc.org Council On Aging - Southern California | 714-479-0107 | www.coasc.org Answers Guide 23/24 39 CAREGIVING RESOURCEShttps://www.caregiveroc.org http://www.caregiveroc.org http://www.coasc.org