Everyone Needs a Break – Respite isn’t just for emergencies!
Advice from all of the Chapters of The Arc in Colorado
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When your friends ask you how you are faring, you just shrug your shoulders and say “fine” don’t you? We know you’re resilient and strong, but let’s face it, our world has changed, and you may be at a point where you need to take a break.
We’re all dealing with a surreal day-to-day right now. Does this sound familiar?
Marie has been working out of her house for several months due to COVID-19. When John, her adult son with Down syndrome, started staying at home all day because his day program had closed, she thought, “How can I possibly do this?” She couldn’t really focus on work because of the demands of caring for John, and John could never get her full attention. She felt like she was both a terrible employee and a terrible parent.
What’s your plan for taking a break, safely and with peace of mind? It’s time to think about a plan before you get too stressed out.
There is help available. You do not have to manage everything yourself, nor should you. Caregivers need to care for themselves in order to care for others.
Marie called her son’s case manager and shared her situation. The case manager was able listen to Marie’s needs and arrange with a provider to have one person to come into the house and keep John engaged for 17 hours a week while Mom worked.
To start developing your plan, do the following:
- Think about what would be most helpful to you.
- Call your case manager at your CCB, the agency that currently provides services for your family, or your Family Support coordinator
- Tell them what’s happening in your life and be detailed
- Ask them what resources are available to you
Don’t hold back information – help them to be able to help you! If you minimize the stress you are under, you may not get what you need.
If you’re not successful with any of these calls, please call your chapter of The Arc. AdvocacyDenver is The Arc chapter for Denver. We’re here to problem solve with you and ensure that you have access to essential support. Everyone needs and deserves a break. When you get one, your loved one gets a break from you too!