Caregivers... Do You Know Someone That Cares Too Much?

Here's a quick checklist:

• My good feelings about who I am stem from receiving approval from you, the care receiver, as well as other loved ones, friends and people at work.
• My struggle affects my serenity.
• My mental attention is focused on you, the care receiver.
• My fear of your anger, disappointment and regret determines what I say or do.
• My social circle diminishes as I involve myself with you.
• My self-esteem is bolstered by relieving your pain.
• My own hobbies/interests are put to one side. My time is spent sharing your hobbies/interests.
• I am not aware of how I feel. I am only aware of how you feel.
• I am not aware of what I want. I ask what you want.
• The dreams I have for my future are linked to you.
• The quality of my life is in relation to the quality of yours. 

Stay tuned for ideas to keep you, the caregiver, healthy.