Episode 6: How to save your friendships when you’re in The Sandwich Generation

Have you ever been asked by a friend, “What can I do to help?” and you go blank?! Yeah, us too. Being in The Sandwich Generation is a lot. And it’s oftentimes hard for our friends and ourselves to communicate just how lonely it feels and how much we need our friends. In this episode hosts Robyn Frank and Eliesa Johnson discuss the challenges of maintaining friendships, having the capacity and some great tips on how we can accept help and love from our friends. Lets learn together on how to call upon our village, so we can feel a little less alone!

Takeaways

• Life can feel heavy and lonely when you’re in the Sandwich Generation and it’s oftentimes hard to share your true feelings with friends. 
• We need our friendships, now more than ever - but how do we ask for help?
• Friends can show support in simple, meaningful ways
• Friendship is essential and can be a source of strength during tough times.
• It's important to include friends in the caregiving journey, even if it's just sharing updates.
• Friendship is essential and can be a source of strength during tough times
• Recognizing the efforts of friends and expressing gratitude strengthens relationships. 

Chapters

00:00 Intro to Friendships

01:17 It feels lonely when you're 'Sandwiched'

06:04 The importance of work friendships 

09:26 It takes a village

12:59 Things aren't as they used to be - and that's okay!

19:57 What can I do for you?

28:25 To Laugh or Cry Segment

30:15 Examples of how friends have shown up

37:42 Keeping our Parent's friendships alive and well

42:51 A recap and Survival Guide to Friendships in the Sandwich Generation

47:13 Outro