6 Quick Fixes for Common Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout

In In The News by Barbara Jacoby

Thumbnail for 7645From: HomeCareAssistance.com

As a caregiver, you are fully focused on someone else. Constantly keeping track of your loved one’s needs makes it more likely that you will forget about your own. If you can’t take adequate care of yourself, you won’t be able to provide the highest quality care for your loved one. Here are six quick fixes to common symptoms of caregiver burnout:

Problem #1: You’re riding an emotional rollercoaster
You may find yourself easily overwhelmed and oftentimes angry. One minute you may feel frustrated or furious and the next minute just helpless. These emotions may alter your eating habits and sleeping patterns, and imbalances in those areas perpetuate the cycle until it spins out of control.
How to fix it:

It’s important to acknowledge that these emotions are normal and experienced by most caregivers. Once you acknowledge these feelings, you need to arm yourself with tools to help combat the ups and downs. You may want to start by consulting a physician to rule out the possibility of other medical conditions that may trigger mental health problems. There are also many online and offline resources for caregivers such as forums and community support groups that provide a safe place to discuss what you are feeling as well ways to cope with these emotions. Schedule time to recharge and relax – read a book, get a massage and make some “you” time. Taking small breaks will give you the energy you need to be a better caregiver.

Problem #2: You’re getting sick more often
Stress has a huge effect on your immune system. If you’re suffering from more colds or bugs than usual and are having a harder time getting over them, your immune system is likely suppressed.
How to fix it:
Make time for your routine check-ups and definitely don’t let recommended screenings (such as mammograms) slide. Eat healthy, balanced meals and aim to sleep for at least seven hours per night. Exercise when you can, even if it’s just a brisk walk around the block.
Problem #3: You overreact
When you are overwhelmed, you are not yourself. You might start snapping at those around you for no reason at all.
How to fix it:

Reach out to friends and family members and vent. Share your frustrations in a healthy, non-confrontational manner so that you can move past them. To gain control of your overwhelming circumstances, map out a routine and make lists. Having calendars and to-do-lists on hand can make your life seem more structured and manageable.

Problem #4: You can’t remember the last time you exercised
You find yourself feeling too emotionally and physically taxed by your caregiving duties to go to the gym or do any sort of physical activity.
How to fix it:
Not only is exercise extremely important for your health, but it is also one of the best-known stress relievers. Make exercise a priority. Even if it’s just a ten-minute jog around the block, it will help lift your mood and boost your immune system – trust us, you will notice a huge difference in your overall wellbeing.
Problem #5: You’ve stopped making fun plans with friends
Who knows how long it’s been since your last dinner date, or even movie night with friends. You need a break, but you feel guilty taking one.
How to fix it:
It’s important to make time for friends and family and do the things you enjoy – even if it’s inviting people over because you can’t leave your aging loved one home alone. Our relationships with others provide a great deal of emotional support and stress relief.
Problem #6: You are the only caregiver around
You are always on-call, and there is no one else helping your loved one. You know that this is too hard of a job to do completely alone.
How to fix it:
When other people offer to lend a hand, let them. There are always other people in the community, if not friends or relatives, that can step in—you just have to ask. Have your to-do list ready. Call your local senior center or place of worship to inquire about volunteer services. Look into home care companies that can provide respite care.