Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion – like you have nothing left to give. When caring for someone else, caregiver stress can sometimes become too much to handle, which can lead to caregiver burnout.

You can be a devoted caregiver and still experience burnout or symptoms that may lead to it, such as:

• Emotional and physical exhaustion.

• Withdrawal from friends, family and other loved ones.

• Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed.

• Feeling hopeless and helpless.

• Changes in appetite and/or weight.

• Changes in sleep patterns.

• Unable to concentrate.

• Getting sick more often.

• Irritability, frustration or anger toward others.

Caregiving for a loved one can be rewarding but also challenging, so it is important to be mindful of your own emotional and physical health. It is important to get help before caregiving becomes overwhelming. Here are some way to reduce your risk of caregiver burnout:

• Join a support group

• Speak with a mental health professional

• Prioritize time for self-care

• Resist feelings of guilt

• Stay connected with your community

• Say “yes” if someone offers to help

• Seek respite care

Remember you cannot pour from an empty cup, so make time for self care and accept help. Remember you aren’t alone on the caregiving journey. It’s okay to ask for help.

At Silver Lantern Homecare, we offer our family caregivers respite care, which is short-term relief for primary caregivers who care for a loved one.

Call (281) 205-1010 to schedule a free consultation.
www.SilverLanternHomecare.com