Health Tip: Keeping the Caregiver Healthy

Here are ways to prevent feeling burned out and stressed

(HealthDay News) -- Caregiving is one of the toughest jobs around. It is both emotionally and physically draining.

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The American Heart Association offers these suggestions for those who assist others to help them feel energized, refreshed and happy:

• Make exercise a regular part of your life, even if it's just a quick walk a few times a day.
• Eat healthy meals and snacks -- whole grains, lean meats, fruits and vegetables -- anything that's good for your heart can help ward off depression.
• Every day, take a few minutes to do something that makes you happy or allows you to relax -- listening to music, reading, taking a hot bath, or anything you enjoy.
• Laugh as much as you can.
• Take some time for yourself to get away each week, even if only for an hour or so.
• Look for signs of depression, and treat them promptly.
• Stay organized and on top of projects to keep from feeling overwhelmed.

-- Diana Kohnle