I found this on another site and just had to bring it to this one. I wish I would have had it when I was taking care of my dad.
CAREGIVER'S BILL OF RIGHTS
I have the right to take care of myself. This is not an act of selfishness. It will give me the capability of taking better care of my loved one.
I have the right to seek help from others even though my loved one may object. I recognize the limits of my own endurance and strength.
I have the right to get angry, be depressed, and express other difficult feelings occasionally.
I have the right to reject any attempts by my loved one (either conscious or unconscious) to manipulate me through guilt and/or depression.
I have the right to take pride in what I am accomplishing and to applaud the courage it has sometimes taken to meet the needs of my loved one.
I have the right to receive consideration, affection, forgiveness, and acceptance from my loved one for what I do, for as long as I offer these qualities in return.
I believe that all caregivers need to live by this. It is important to help take care of those who need us, but we also need to take care of ourselves. Print this message out and put it on the fridge for all to see because it may help others too.
God Bless
Barbara