When a caregiver is worn down over the years of sacrificed care giving and, in retrospect, berated/demeaned by family members and/or the person they are caring for, this takes a toll on the caregiver's self worth... As a matter of face, ironically, the care giver often feels guilt of not doing enough!... How do you ever go back to the happy person you once were and YOU forgot?... How do you ever 'recover' from all the 'damage' to your self WORTH?... (It's easy for people or counselors to say you have to WORK on your self, but when the damage is done to your heart, how does one really recover?)
I hope that if this is ever over, that somehow I'll be stronger spiritually, that I will be able to encourage and support others who are going through the dark times. But some days I'm not even sure if there will be enough of me left for that.
I think I've already had about 3 nervous breakdowns but I'm not sure ... haven't been able to take my eyes off the road long enough to know if I've really had a blowout. (heehee)
Continue with a skill or function that still works. I'm extremely nearsighted, but boy, can I see tiny things up close. Can you digest rich food easily? Touch your toes? Tell exactly what Dad had for dinner last night while changing his Depends? Name every actress on Golden Girls?
Think of a good deed you did in the past that was APPRECIATED by someone. Remember someone who thought you were really funny. Think of something positive about yourself, no matter how small. Day by day, add a new thing to your list of why you are worthwhile. It starts out being mechanical and half-hearted. If you keep at it, you will start to believe it!
It's only part of the answer, but it can help.