Burnout among caregivers is real. With relentless packed schedules, caregivers often take care of everything and everyone—except themselves. Preventing burnout requires insight.
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Once burnout sets in, it’s time to find a new path. Preventing burnout begins with learning new coping mechanisms and lifestyle changes.
1) Ask for help
Asking for help is a sign of strength. When you’re stressed, think about who can help lighten your load.
2) Talk with friend.
Sometimes, talking or venting can put life in perspective, especially if your friend or family member can empathize with your feelings.
3) Exercise
Exercise is proven to help much more than physical health. A short walk or bike ride can give a new sense of energy and confidence.
4) Get sleep
Caregivers often find it a challenge to get enough sleep. Protect this time, even if it means asking for help or finding another place to sleep.
5) Eat healthy
Food and nutrition are just as important for caregivers as it is for loved ones. If time is a challenge, explore premade or easy-to-pick-up meals.
6) Be realistic
With disease and aging, the reality is caregiving may only get more complicated and time-consuming. An assisted living situation may eventually be necessary. Start this research and conversation early, so everyone is prepared.
7) Set goals
Writing lists with daily goals or a weekly goal can make endless tasks feel more manageable. Also, checking off items from a to-do list lends a sense of accomplishment, no matter how small the task.
8) Keep your health appointments
Caregivers often skip appointments or push their own health needs aside. Be sure to schedule time for your wellness check-ups and annual exams.
9) Practice positivity
Dwell on the good. Having a positive outlook can foster energy and lighter moods.
10) Use respite services
Everyone has their limits. Find a respite service that offers time off for a few hours or days. Perhaps this is a volunteer who sits with a loved one for a few hours, or someone who comes into the home for several days so a caregiver can take a vacation. Learn to rely on the service when needed.
Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.
Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/how-to-avoid-caregiver-burnout/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9225-caregiver-burnout
https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/life-balance/info-2019/caregiver-stress-burnout.html