By: Alex Mitchell, Integrative Life and Cannabis Coach

Caregivers of cancer patients play a crucial role in providing mental and physical support throughout the cancer journey. While some cancer patients may choose to use cannabis as a part of their cancer treatment plan, caregivers may also want to consider using cannabis as a part of their own self-care routine.

The American Cancer Society, Fred Hutch Cancer Center and others provide many resources for caregivers of cancer patients on their websites. They all recommend self-care for caregivers that involve taking care of their own physical, emotional, and mental health needs.

Here are some examples from such organizations of self-care activities that caregivers can incorporate into their daily routines:

1. Getting enough rest: Caregivers should prioritize getting enough sleep and taking breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge.
2. Meditation or relaxation techniques: Practicing meditation or relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce stress and anxiety.
3. Journaling: Writing down thoughts and feelings in a journal can be a helpful way to process emotions and reduce stress.
4. Spending time with friends or family: Socializing with friends or family members can help caregivers feel supported and connected.
5. Pursuing hobbies or interests: Engaging in activities that bring joy or satisfaction, such as reading, gardening, or painting, can help caregivers recharge and reduce stress.
6. Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase energy levels. Caregivers can try activities like walking, jogging, yoga, or strength training.
7. Seeking professional help: If caregivers are struggling with their mental health or feeling overwhelmed, they should seek professional help from a therapist or counselor.

When thinking about adding cannabis as part of the self-care routine for caregivers, consider the aid that it can provide in everything from sleep to exercise to stress relief.

Caregivers can consider the following possibilities for incorporating cannabis into their own self-care:

1. Sleep: Cannabis can aid in not only falling asleep but sleeping through the night. The basics of sleep hygiene should also be incorporated: avoiding caffeine late in the day, dimming lights in the evening, limiting electronics close to bedtime, and having a consistent bedtime.
2. Stress and anxiety: Cannabis can assist in alleviating stress and anxiety, when used at the correct dosage.
3. Relaxation: The stereotype of a very relaxed cannabis consumer is a stereotype for a reason. Caregivers may want to consume cannabis as a relaxation tool.

4. Exercise: It seems counter-intuitive, but cannabis before exercise can aid caregivers in having the energy and drive to get started with a workout and complete it.

It’s important for cancer caregivers to be educated about how cannabis can be utilized as a part of their self-care. Working with a cannabis coach, caregivers can make a plan on how to incorporate cannabis into their routines.

Remember, self-care is not selfish, and taking care of your needs is essential to providing the best possible care for the cancer patient. It is important for caregivers to prioritize their well-being and make time for self-care activities.

About Alex Mitchell:

Alex Mitchell is an Integrative Life and Cannabis Coach, educator, as well as a cannabis medical patient. She works with people who are seeking deep change in their lives, whether that is through the use of plant medicine or other change work techniques.

Click the Learn More Button 

Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.