An Attitude of Gratitude for the Caregiver

The role of caregiver is fraught with responsibility, worry and often the feeling of what’s going to happen next? Caring for a sick loved one can be chaotic and add to negative thinking.

Developing an attitude of gratitude may be a useful exercise for an overwhelmed caregiver.

Our attitude can affect not only our outlook on life, but also on the care given. The deliberate mental exercise of making a list of ten things we are grateful for produces a more positive outlook. Focusing on positives negates negative thoughts.

My own caregiving experience was emotional and stressful. Facing Dad’s death while caring for him stretched my fragile emotions to the limit. At the age of forty, my coping skills were poor and underdeveloped. Homeschooling my two sons added to the stress.

During this time of my life a gratitude list was a foreign concept. Learning about this coping treasure did not occur until many years later during my journey of grief following Dad’s death.

This coping tool would have been a wonderful benefit during the days of my dad’s declining health. But continuing this mental exercise to this day has helped me to keep depression at bay.

Fostering an attitude of gratitude can be a challenge. Difficult seasons of life can drain us. Finding something—anything—to be grateful for seems impossible. Starting with the basics can help.

Gratitude List

The sun is shining
The birds are singing
A friend (be specific)
The loved one you are caring for
Any sleep the previous night
A roof over your head
Food in the pantry
_______________
_______________
_______________

By the time your list is complete, your spirits may be lifted a little higher.

This daily exercise can also help train your mind to see all the goodness God has provided.

Sometimes we all need a reminder that life is good, and God is good…all the time.

Fill your thoughts with what is good:

Scripture

^”Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, Rejoice. Let your forbearance be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. The things which ye both learned and received and heard and saw in me, these things do: and the God of peace shall be with you” (Philippians 4:4-9 ASV).

Prayer

Father, I thank you and praise You for all of the blessings You have given each one of us. Thank You for the loved ones we care for, and the provision of food, shelter, friends and family. We ask for energy and a good attitude during this difficult season. Please take special care of those in our care today and every day. Amen.