As we approach World Mental Health Day, I wanted to share a beautiful article that Noemie Viterale from The Pet Times crafted on our journey for the past few months caring for our beloved 15 year old husky, August, while having to show up fully for all other aspects of life.
The journey has been one filled with love but also stress and anxiety. The emotional strain of caring for an aging pet and family member while navigating our professional lives is a real and often overlooked aspect of #mentalhealth. Truth be told, there are not-so-good days when you are at capacity, unsure where to find the mental and physical #resilience to persevere, and you find your limits tested when August’s condition worsens, additional weights are loaded or you meet with unkind situations.
Despite these challenges, we also wish to celebrate life and count our blessings - Fighter August living a full life beyond his average lifespan, having the financial means for August’s intensive care and special diets, as well as family, friends, neighbours and colleagues who have been generously supportive and kind.
Sharing some learnings I have gained, for anyone who may be on a similar journey:
🐾 Patience & Education - August’s changing health and behaviour issues can be frustrating and I find having patience and learning more about his conditions have helped to navigate these transitions better
🐾 Open Communication - sharing the situation with people at work have helped foster understanding and some actually share similar challenges
🐾 Embrace Flexibility - thankful for flexible work arrangements that allows me to be more present for August and ensure he gets the care he needs without compromising professional responsibilities
🐾 Practice Self-Care - #caregiving can be emotionally draining and while easier said than done, I try my best to recognize that it ok to be overwhelmed, give myself grace and set aside time to maintain my own #mentalwellbeing
Craig #pets #worklifeintegration #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #worldmentalhealthday