Caregiving for someone with multiple sclerosis (MS) can provide an opportunity to demonstrate your love and commitment to that person in his or her greatest times of need, but it can also be challenging, exhausting, and stressful. All too often, caregivers put their own needs on the back burner, which can lead to feelings of depression, resentment, and isolation. But there is another way.

If you're caring for someone with MS, pay attention to these steps suggested by the National Family Caregivers Association and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. You need to take care of yourself as you care for someone else:

1.Educate Yourself
The more you know about MS, the more you'll feel ready to face the challenges multiple sclerosis can pose. Learning as much as you can about the illness and the available treatment options can empower you to help your loved one make decisions regarding his or her care.

2. Connect With Others
Caregivers can feel as if they're on their own, and that others just can't or won't understand what they're going through. Networking with other caregivers, either in a support group or through online message boards and chats, can help prevent the guilt and turmoil that can arise when negative emotions surface. Talking with others can also help you see the situation from another point of view, brainstorm new solutions for coping with MS-related issues, or just feel that you're not so alone.

3. Say Yes to Help
Thinking you have to do it all is a common mistake of caregivers. Instead of turning down offers of help or not following up on them, say yes and be ready to explain the specifics. Do you need someone to stay with your loved one while you go shopping once a week? Could you use help with transport to and from the doctor's? A casserole or other ready-to-eat item for days when cooking seems out of the question? Whatever it is, don't be afraid to ask. People often want to help but don't know how.

4. Get a Guide
There's no need to feel as though you're sailing into uncharted water as a caregiver for someone with MS. Whether your MS caregiving question is small or big, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society has established a toll-free hotline — 1-800-344-4867 — staffed with MS Navigators who can help steer you toward the information or resources you need.

5. Give Yourself a Break
Caregiving is a big job. And like any job, it's one you need a vacation from once in a while. Make a point of lining up occasional respite care, either from a professional or from family and friends, so you can take the time you need to rejuvenate.

6. Don't Let Things Build
If the warning signs of caregiver burnout emerge — you feel hopeless or helpless, you have trouble sleeping, you lose or gain weight, you lose interest in things you once enjoyed, you cry or feel as if you're on the verge of tears or are simply emotionally or physically exhausted — take immediate action. Getting help for these feelings early can help you avoid more serious problems later.

7. Don't Deny Your Feelings
Allow yourself to grieve over the losses caused by your loved one's MS, and also to dream new dreams about the future. If you're struggling, talk about your feelings with a trusted friend, a member of the clergy, or a therapist. And be sure to speak to a doctor if you think you might be experiencing serious symptoms of depression or anxiety.

8. Take Care of Yourself Too
You'll feel much more capable of handling the tasks of an MS caregiver if you take excellent care of your own health as well. When you eat a balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, get enough sleep, make time for hobbies or activities you enjoy, and schedule time for relaxation, you're better able to tackle the stress of caregiving.

9. Promote Independence
Be open to technologies and ideas that allow your loved one to be as independent as possible. Not only will he or she appreciate the freedom to accomplish some things, but you'll be allowed more time to concentrate on other things.

10. Trust Your Gut
What works for you and your family may be different from what works for someone else in a caregiving situation. Trust your instincts to lead you in the right direction when it comes to decisions about your loved one's care.

Remember — it's not selfish to take care of your needs too. Caregiver burnout doesn't help anyone. By taking these steps, you'll not only feel better but you'll be a better caregiver all around.