Do You Know the Signs of Caregiver Burnout?

Family caregivers provide the majority of care for our elders in America. Although many of us take on the role of family caregiver eagerly to help our loved ones, it can be quite different than we initially expected. Most caregivers are unpaid, yet work much longer hours than a “typical” job.

Are you a caregiver right now? Did you step in to fill this much needed role without knowing what you were getting involved in? You may be in a situation that, even though you are with family all day, you have never felt so alone. You volunteered for this role, yet feelings of regret and being overwhelmed are slowly building. Originally, you were positive about this new responsibility, but lately you’ve been feeling negative, unfocused and disconnected.

These new emotions may be signs of caregiver burnout. Caregiver burnout can mimic fatigue, depression, anxiety and also stress. Let us share with you a few common signs of caregiver burnout.

1. Guilt is replaced with irritability.

Often, when people first begin caring for a family member, they experience feelings of guilt when they leave their family member or take time for themselves. This causes the caregiver to lessen the amount of time spent on him or herself. This denial can cause caregiver burnout as those feelings of guilt are replaced with irritability. If you become irritable when you have to help your loved one, or even when you discuss you loved one’s situation with others, you may be burning out. This can also be portrayed in a switch from positive to negative emotions toward your loved one.

2. Irritability is replaced with feelings of harm.

Providing constant care for someone is extremely difficult and stressful. While occasional feelings of irritability toward your situation are normal, feelings of wanting to inflict harm on the person you are caring for are not. If you are so frustrated that you want to shake your loved one, you are most likely extremely burnt out.

3. Changes in appetite, weight, or both.

Signs of stress and depression are often associated with caregiver burnout, as well as  changes in appetite and weight loss. Changes like this can mean you are burnt out. The stress of the responsibilities, constant care and emotional toll can all be factors.

4. Withdrawal from friends and family.

If you have withdrawn yourself almost completely from friends and family, caregiver burnout may be at play. Lack of enjoyment in previously enjoyed activities and lack of interest in being social due to your responsibilities as a caregiver can all occur.

5. Feelings of self-harm.

If the stress and emotional impact of your role has you so depressed you are considering self-harm, you are definitely burnt out. This may also occur in excessive use of alcohol and/or sleep. Any self-harm thoughts or actions should be immediately and professionally dealt with. Talk with your family members about allocating some responsibilities.

Caregiver burnout is an underrated yet serious issue. If you are currently experiencing any of the above as a caregiver, please talk with someone. For more information, please contact us today!