Taking care of yourself

Caring for a loved one with a chronic illness or special needs can be stressful. Don’t lose sight of your own needs as you help your loved one.

• Get plenty of rest: sleep is vital to your health. Make your rest a priority
• Get help: many people will offer to help, whether it is making dinners for the freezer or walking the dog—take all the help you can get and seek help before you get overwhelmed. If you can afford it, look into a domestic helper so that you can focus on your personal needs and the needs of your loved one without worrying about chores getting out of hand
• Get support: support groups offer information and advice to caregivers as well as patients. Talk to your transplant team about local organizations that may be right for you

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