Suicidality, self-compassion, and family caregiving
Suicidality in family caregivers is an underrecognized problem. Family caregivers often feel a profound sense of purpose, duty, and meaningfulness in the aid they give to family members. They try to be strong. They are better able to function in their daily lives than those they are caring for, but that doesn’t mean they don’t suffer. Rates of suicidal thoughts in caregivers of people with chronic illness are about 1.3x higher than the general population. Several factors contribute to this: physical burden of care,...
Peer Support is Essential
In collaboration with researchers at Dartmough, I recently published a state-of-the-art narrative review on peer support in the journal mHealth, which is freely accessible here. Peer support, or finding help from others in a similar situation, can be a very powerful way of coping when things go wrong. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and emotions, helps you to feel less alone and realize that others are in similar situations. Peer support discussions can also provide different solutions to the problems that you are encountering...
Writing Process
Inspiro
Escribo
Respiro
Inhalo
Exhalo
Descanso
Inspire
I write
Breathe
Inhale
Exhale
Rest
Video from My New Research
My team at MGH just finished an incredible video where participants from our research study shared their stories. They talked about the mindfulness and guided imagery exercises I taught them and how these practices have changed their lives and improved their relationships with the family members they care for. I feel so honored and thankful to work with family caregivers who give their time and open their hearts. These caregivers are true heroes. You can watch the video here.
The Honey Locust
The locust tree after a long winter
Makes new leaves and flourishes them in the air on outstretched arms
It does so though it has no control over how the wind
Blows its branches and flutters its leaves
Whether the sun shines on them
Whether clouds fill the sky
Or if the rain comes
Perform your chosen actions, Jain!
Do not worry about the changing winds
Stretch your arms into the breeze
