Over the last two years, I have been assigned a challenging yet enlightening journey, taking care of a parent with dementia. The court assigned me guardianship after his wife of 50+ years unintentionally complicated his situation. This responsibility, while born out of love and duty, brought with it an overwhelming emotional and physical toll.
The Toll of Caregiving
I found myself over-emotional and overburdened. My health suffered significantly. With my cortisol levels reaching 5190 out of a 6500 test range (with 2750 being normal), it was evident that the stress was more than just a feeling – it was a measurable, physical phenomenon. My sleep was sporadic, my mind constantly racing, and my body bearing the brunt of this intense stress.
Understanding Dementia: A New Perspective
In seeking solutions, I delved into understanding the dementia care journey. Interestingly, it’s often described as Type 3 diabetes, a term that highlights a potential link to insulin resistance in the brain. The interplay between diabetes management and dementia severity became a focal point of my research. I began a meticulous journal, recording how controlling blood sugar impacted my parent’s clarity. The transformation over six months was remarkable. Although there were still challenging days, the overall improvement was undeniable and deeply encouraging.
Personal Health and Prevention
This experience made me introspect about my health, especially considering my family history. The fear of forgetting one’s life in senior years is daunting. I underwent extensive health evaluations, including detailed “dry urine” tests and an MRI, and worked closely with a naturopath for hormone balance.
Though substantial, investment in these tests was necessary in my journey toward understanding and preventing potential health issues.
The Overlooked Aspect: Mental Wellness
Growing up, the focus is often on physical health, but mental wellness is seldom discussed. My 25 years of experience in a psychiatric hospital, witnessing the effects of psychological and physical abuse has taught me the importance of nurturing mental health. It is crucial to understand how our gut, brain, and heart are interconnected and how they collectively influence our mental state.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Take the time to nurture it.
The Role of Neurotransmitters in Mental Wellness
-Dopamine: This neurotransmitter plays a vital role in our emotions.
-Endorphins interact with brain receptors to reduce pain and boost pleasure.
-Oxytocin: Often dubbed the ‘love hormone’, it’s vital for social bonding.
-Serotonin: This key chemical helps regulate mood, anxiety, and sleep patterns.
Healing Begins Within
The journey to healing starts from within, not necessarily in a doctor’s office. It begins in our gut, where much of our mental and physical health is rooted.
Your Path to Mental Wellness
Understanding your mental wellness is crucial. I invite you to take our Mental Wellness Quiz. It’s an insightful tool that can help you gauge your mental state and guide you toward resources and practices supporting your mental and emotional well-being.
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Remember, this journey is not just about caring for others but also about taking care of yourself. Your mental wellness is paramount. Take the Lifestyle quiz.