Many parents or anyone looking after a child with autism goes through painful moments. They are highly vulnerable to poor health, diseases, and breakdown in relationships. It is therefore necessary for parents or anyone taking care of people with autism to look after themselves. The following are benefits of self care while also caring for a person with autism:

You minimize stress

Caring for people with autism is stressful. You may struggle to communicate or socialize with them and this may result into anger, depression, and denial. These emotions lead to stress, which is detrimental to your health and relationship as well as affecting your capacity to care for your loved ones with autism. However, you can reduce stress in your life and develop strong emotions to understand and care for people with autism in the following ways:

  • Eat a balanced diet

 

You must consume a diet that has a variety of foods in right proportions. Research shows that we should drink a lot of fluids; eat foods rich in starch, proteins, minerals, less fat and vitamins; and consume dairy products such as milk. This will help you have a healthy body weight.

  • Exercise regularly

 

Physical exercise is good for you. It improves your moods, prevents heart diseases, boosts energy, and reduces weight. There are many ways of exercising such as gym, walking and running. You should devise an exercise plan and follow it strictly and regularly.

You are supported and encouraged

Do not just depend on your knowledge alone. Try and visit a competent counselor or join an autism support group near you. In an autism support group, you meet people with similar situation as yours and share ideas, information, and learn from each other. You are also supported by the members in trying other techniques to help your loved ones that you may not have been aware of before.

source: https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/ways-reducing-stress-gain-clarity/