Do you feel that your world is getting smaller and smaller because of your informal care responsibilities? That friendships are fading and your social circle is becoming more and more distant? You are not alone. Fortunately, you can take steps to maintain and even strengthen your social circle. In this blog, you'll discover how.
You are not the only one
Informal care requires time, energy and attention. Often you don't notice until later that you don't get together with friends, family or neighbors as often. Maybe you recognize it:
- Having to cancel appointments anyway due to care or work commitments.
- Friends who pull away, sometimes because they don't know how to support you.
- Feeling of loneliness when you may never be ‘alone.
- The feeling that your life stands still and that of others goes on.
- Less energy or interest in contacts from the person you care for
Why is your network important? It gives you resilience!
A strong social circle is important in good and challenging times. It offers support, practical help, a listening ear or relaxation. It increases your carrying capacity, allowing you to handle just a little more. But how do you maintain those connections, despite all the busyness?
Small step, big impact
Here are a few practical tips to keep your social circle alive:
- Consciously schedule time for social moments
It may sound crazy, but put birthdays, app moments, coffee with a friend or a family dinner in your calendar ahead of time. It doesn't have to be long; even half an hour together can mean a lot. - Be open about your situation
Many people would like to help, but don't know how. By honestly sharing what you are going through, you give them a chance to support you. This can start as early as a simple app: “Do you feel like meeting up soon?” - Allow help
Sometimes we think we have to do everything ourselves. But if a friend offers to run an errand for you, or babysit your neighbor for an afternoon, say “yes.” This will give you some breathing room and give them a role in your life. - Focus on that which energizes you
Sometimes it is good to park care for a while and instead seek out contacts around interests, hobbies and your talents. This may require energy, but can certainly give it! - Find sharing partners
Sometimes those around you don't fully understand the impact of your concerns, or they themselves are having an intensely busy time. This can be frustrating. An informal care group (online or offline) can be an outlet and provide new social contacts. Consider Surplus' open coffee or workshops: mantelzorgoosterhout.nl/agenda
What will you do?
Grab your phone today and send a message to a friend you haven't spoken to in a while. Invite someone over for coffee, or check out local caregiver groups you can join. You don't have to do it alone, and with a little effort you can feel the connection again with the people who are important to you.
