Burnout is something that all caregivers are vulnerable to, especially if they’re not taking great care of themselves. But it can also sneak up on you when you think you’re doing everything right, so you need to be aware of the signs.
Caregiving Feels Like a Burden
When you’re stressed to your limits, everything feels like a burden, honestly. But if you’re mostly just being a caregiver, that’s going to be your primary concern. Caregiver burnout is what happens when you’re giving and giving, but not taking time to recharge yourself. You can’t keep burning that candle when it’s down to the bottom of the wick.
Your Relationships Are Suffering
Caregivers in North Haven CT: Spotting the Signs of Burnout
It’s not just your relationship with your aging adult that’s at stake, though. It’s entirely possible that you’re having trouble in your other relationships as well. People at work, your spouse, friends, and even strangers on the street might all be difficult for you to communicate with effectively. This can be a big problem.
It’s Tough to Concentrate
Stress takes a toll on you, even if you don’t notice it. The thing is, your brain does notice. Your brain is distracted with all that is going on and you’re only going to realize that when you start to notice how tough it is for you to focus. Regular daily activities suddenly seem so much more difficult because your body’s attention is diverted.
Your Emotions and Moods Are Random
When you’re under a great deal of stress, you’re not in the best control of your moods, your emotions, and your reactions. That’s a big part of why your relationships suffer. This is a difficult situation to be in because you likely feel alone and then your moods and your feelings can drive people even farther away.
Friends and Family Are Worried about You
Are friends and family members expressing concern? Instead of writing off what they’re telling you, stop and take an objective look at how you’re feeling and what’s going on with you. You might just be in a situation where you can still do something about the stress you’re experiencing before you need to take an extended break from caregiving.
If you suspect that you’re facing burnout as a caregiver, it’s vital that you talk to your doctor about what you can do. It may not be too late and you can still do something to care for yourself the way you need to. It’s worth opening up a potentially scary conversation to get the help that you need.
If you are considering caregivers in North Haven, CT for your aging parent, please contact the caring staff at Franciscan Ever There Care. Call today 203-630-2881.
