Writing for Personal Caregivers

A therapeutic writing course for personal caregivers

A new class begins August 15, 2008 and ends October 10

Whether you are new to caregiving or have been at it for some time, whether your charge is a relative or friend, whether the relationship is loving or antagonistic, writing about the different aspects of your caregiving experience can be therapeutic. Note: This course does not substitute for professional therapy or other professional treatment or avice. Always consult a licensed professional with any medical or psychological problems.

Writing for Personal Caregivers Online has returned to Writing to Heal, Writing to Grow^SM after several years' absence. In this course you will:

explore your feelings about issues that every personal caregiver faces

have an opportunity to voluntarily share your writing and feelings with classmates on a private forum

receive information about studies on the benefits of therapeutic writing

Writing as a caregiving aid

Personal caregivers (family or friends as opposed to professional health care workers) deal with a tremendous amount of stress. Grim statistics show how damaging the caregiver situation can be for those who do not manage their stress, and caregivers tend to neglect care for themselves. Expressive, or therapeutic writing helps relieve stress and often leads to resolution of nagging problems. Writing is an inexpensive way for personal caregivers to improve their circumstances and their health.

In addition to helping you free up your emotions, writing about caregiving can have medical benefits. Data show that when people write their deep thoughts and feelings about traumatic events, their heart rates slow, their bodies are better able to fight infection, and people feel a general sense of well-being.

Eight weekly sessions begin August 15, 2008 and end October 10. Each session will arrive by email on a Friday. You have one week to write about the topics. The forum is open from the starting date until one week after the course ends.

Cost: $110.00

If you have aging parent problems you need to read this. When the Old Block Chips.