Price of Fuel

The price of fuel has risen so much lately that we squeeze the trigger of the fuel pump slowly, because we don’t want to see the dollars racing upwards on the screen. However, the cost of not filling our own tanks can be even more devastating for us and for tamariki  we care for.

We all have those days where it feels like we have been driving up hill all day, which drains our tanks even quicker. We then end up with no reserves to put our foot down when we are in the passing lane.

Thankfully, the cost of refilling our own tanks hasn’t risen, we just often forget to do it. Remember to take time to do the enjoyable things we used to do, like having a coffee with a friend, joining a club that interests you, going for a bike ride, or having a swim.

Connect and talk to other caregivers or start a caregiver support group. I would love to help if that was something that could be useful. Often as carers, we can fill each other’s tank by validating others’ experiences, or actively listening to one another.

By ensuring that refuelling our tanks becomes a ritual, our caregiving journey may sometimes be one of narrow and windy roads with switchbacks, but we will get there in the end because of all the fuel we have to run on. There will be downhill runs and it will become easier knowing there is a refuelling station just around the corner. Whether it is us or our vehicle, with continued servicing and a full tank, we are less likely to break down.

Rob Surtees (Therapist, Caring Families Aotearoa)