Navigating the responsibilities of caregiving can often leave one feeling like they're caught in a relentless storm, with demands that pour down incessantly. Yet, as I've learned through the personal journey of managing my mother's care post-lung cancer treatments, there exists an 'umbrella' capable of providing protection against this downpour—healthy boundaries.

Caregiving is inherently a role that comes with an intricate web of emotional and physical demands. The metamorphosis of a relationship from familial to one where care is central can result in a burden that, if not managed with healthy boundaries, leads to burnout and excessive stress. This episode is not just a recount of my own experiences but a universal call to caregivers to erect protective barriers to preserve their wellbeing.

Establishing boundaries goes beyond the mere concept of saying no; it encompasses the entire gambit of personal well-being. This includes protecting one's time, emotional energy,...