Whether or not the people in your world effectively tell you so, you are highly valued. Family caregivers are “essential workers.” And it is not weakness to need to feel valued. God made us relational beings. The exchange of affection is essential for maintaining satisfactory relationships. What is weakness is relying too heavily on others to keep us feeling affirmed. God insists on being our first love. If you’re fueled by feeling respected, affirmed, appreciated or loved, read on for valuable tips and encouragement. This is the third article in a series exploring what puts family caregivers in their "sweet spots" when supporting a family member with special needs. Today’s focus is on how caregivers experience refreshment through affirmation, appreciation, respect and a sense of competence.

The life of a caregiver can be socially isolating for a variety of reasons. And limited socialization has unique impact from one person to another. Some people simply don’t need a lot of interaction with people. Others have great need to feel loved, cared for and valued. As you ponder the nature of your own needs for community and relationships, consider how the tips in today's article may help you function from a place of strength. This post is the latest installment in a developing series for caregivers. We're exploring what helps us find our "sweet spots" in the family that cares for one another amidst the challenges of disability. We hope today's article encourages you and offers tips that help optimize your strengths.

This month, we're celebrating loving families and the legacy we can leave our children about love in marriage. Marriage is challenging, at times, even in the best of circumstances. When there is the added complication of circumstances like disability, medical concerns, traumatic injury, a mental health issue or some other special need, a marriage can become neglected or strained. Here are some practices — yes, things we can work at together, over time — that will help strengthen any marriage. But these are particularly powerful points of focus for the family impacted by special needs.