Being a caregiver is rewarding—but it’s also exhausting. Between appointments, daily routines, emotional ups and downs, and the pressure to stay strong for someone else, caregivers often forget the one person who needs attention too: themselves.
The truth is, many caregivers struggle to ask for help, feel guilty taking breaks, and push self-care to the bottom of the list. But when you’re running on empty, it’s hard to give your best to anyone else.
That’s why we connected with Jennifer Sermabeikian, caregiver advocate and creator of Self-Care for Caregivers: A 60-Day Accountability Journal.
We asked Jennifer about daily self-care, managing guilt, and how caregivers can stay emotionally and physically balanced—even on tough days.
There’s no perfect formula, but small daily habits can create big change. Think: daily affirmations, gratitude, journaling, eating a balanced diet, drinking enough water, deep breathing, movement, listening to music, calling a friend, dancing, being silly, and laughing.
It’s not about doing all of them every day—it’s about doing what works for you.
One practice might lift your mood today. Another might calm your nervous system tomorrow. A mindset shift here and there can help keep you grounded. And above all, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You don’t need to do everything alone.
Caregivers often track every detail of their loved one’s health but rarely check in with their own. That’s where self-care accountability comes in. It’s the idea that caring for others starts with caring for yourself.
When you’re not tending to your physical, mental, or emotional health, it shows. Stress builds up. Exhaustion hits. You lose patience, focus, or drive. That’s why it’s so important to create space for your healing and wellness, too.
Jennifer created a 60-day accountability journal specifically for this. Each day includes prompts to help caregivers reflect, reset, and re-center. Every few days, there’s a deeper topic to inspire more connection with yourself. It’s not about perfection—it’s about intention.
Because at the end of the day, no one will prioritize your well-being if you don’t. And when you do, you’re not just better for yourself—you’re stronger for those who count on you.
– Jennifer Sermabeikian
It starts with one mindset shift: self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. You can’t pour from an empty cup. You can’t keep going if you don’t pause to recharge. That’s not a weakness—it’s human.
Think of it like putting on your oxygen mask first. When you give yourself what you need—whether it’s rest, quiet, support, or a moment to breathe—you’re refueling. And that fuel keeps you strong for the long haul.
So instead of feeling guilty, remind yourself: this break, this walk, this conversation, this deep breath. It’s not time away from caregiving. It’s what makes caregiving possible.
Try this quick practice: deep breathing. It’s easy, powerful, and helps immediately when you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed.
Start with just one minute. Breathe in through your nose for 3 counts, then out through your mouth for 6. Repeat it a few times a day. It brings oxygen to your brain, calms your body, and helps you focus better. It’s a small act with a big impact.
As for daily life, Jennifer shared what caring for her father looked like. He loved waking up early and greeting the sun. Their days followed a steady routine—exercise, appointments, advocacy, and quiet time to share stories. As his mobility declined, they adjusted their routines, shifting exercises to the couch or bed. But what mattered most was the time spent together. Listening, being present, and creating space for joy in the small things.
As Jennifer reminds us, caregiving isn’t just about showing up for someone else—it’s about showing up for yourself too. That starts with small acts of self-care, a clear routine, and the permission to ask for help. Whether it’s a deep breath, a journal entry, or a moment to laugh, every choice you make to take care of yourself matters. Because when you’re well, everyone benefits.
Jennifer Sermabeikian is a self-care advocate, author, and holistic health practitioner. She wrote Self-Care Accountability for Caregivers to help others prioritize their well-being—especially those caring for others. As a Heart-Centered Life Coach, VoiceBio Sound Therapist, and Biofeedback Practitioner, Jennifer supports clients in finding balance through nutrition, movement, and mindset. Her mission is simple: to guide others in caring for themselves with the same love they give to others.
Discover further wisdom from industry experts by exploring our curated collection of knowledge.
