Support for the Caregivers: Self-Care While Helping Others

Taking Care of Yourself While Helping Others

Free Grief Support from Bakken-Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services

When a loved one passes, grief affects more than just the individual—it ripples through families, friendships, and communities. Often, one person steps into the role of the caregiver: the one who organizes, supports, comforts, and keeps everything moving. But what happens when the caregiver is grieving too?

At Bakken-Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services, we see how deeply caregivers are impacted during times of loss. That’s why we offer free grief support services not just for those directly grieving, but also for those supporting others. If you’re caring for loved ones while processing your own pain, you are not alone—and your well-being matters.

Why Caregivers Need Support Too

Being strong for others can be emotionally and physically draining. Caregivers often put their own needs last, leading to burnout, depression, or unresolved grief. Whether you’re a parent supporting children, an adult child caring for a surviving parent, or a friend helping others cope, it’s vital to recognize that your grief is just as valid.

You cannot pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s essential.

Tips for Caregivers Grieving While Helping Others

1. Give Yourself Permission to Grieve

It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. You don’t have to hide your emotions to protect others. Sharing your grief, even with those you’re helping, can build trust and open healing for everyone.

2. Accept Help from Others

You may feel responsible for being the “strong one,” but even caregivers need care. Let friends cook a meal, help with errands, or simply listen. Saying yes to support is a strength, not a weakness.

3. Set Boundaries

It’s okay to say no. Protecting your energy allows you to show up with more intention and compassion. Carve out time just for you—whether it’s 10 minutes of quiet, a walk, or a support group meeting.

4. Practice Simple Self-Care

Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate. Small acts like getting enough rest, eating nourishing meals, journaling, or spending time in nature can restore your sense of balance during difficult days.

5. Talk to Someone

Grief can feel isolating, especially when you’re caring for others. Our free grief support services include individual counseling and caregiver-specific resources. Sometimes, simply being heard makes all the difference.

You Deserve Support, Too

At Bakken-Young, we honor the role caregivers play in healing. But we also recognize that you need healing, too. If you’re balancing your own grief while supporting someone else’s, we invite you to connect with us for compassionate, no-cost guidance and support.

📞 Call us today at our two locations: New Richmond at (715) 243-5252  or River Falls at (715) 425-8788.

🌐 Visit our grief support webpage to learn more and register for support groups, educational grief webinars, or further counseling resources.

Helping others through grief is powerful—but helping yourself is just as important. Let us walk with you on your journey to healing.

Bakken-Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services offers free grief support, pre-planning arrangements, and more catered to individuals’ needs and wishes.