Managing Stress – Signs of Caregiver Stress and Burnout

We all experience stress at times, work through it and recover because the culprit is not part of our everyday life. For some, especially those who are caregivers, stress is a daily visitor that when visited too often can push one to the limit or burnout.   

According to the Cleveland Clinic caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional  and mental exhaustion that can happen when one dedicates time and energy to managing the health and safety of someone else and neglects their own emotional, physical, and spiritual health. This is not uncommon as studies indicate between 40% to 70% of caregivers experience symptoms of burnout.

“We are very aware of caregiver burnout and as care managers we are always on the lookout for the signs,” states Santa Fromm, Director of Support Services at Gold Medal Home Health. “A very important part of our job is to listen and recognize the signs when a caregiver may be approaching the breaking point.”

The signs of caregiver burnout are very similar to those of stress and depression and, The Cleveland Clinic lists them as:

• Emotional and physical exhaustion,

• Withdrawal from friends and family,

• Changes in appetite, and sleep patterns,

•  Irritability, frustration, and inability to concentrate,

• Feeling hopeless, helpless and ill more often,

• Changes in appetite and weight. 

According to Santa Fromm caregiving is challenging work and in addition to the obvious causes of burnout caregivers feel that their work will have a positive effect on the health and happiness of the person for whom they care. This is rewarding at times but some days will be harder than others. The difficulty comes in balancing expectations.

Caregivers may feel overwhelmed because they are juggling too many obligations at once. Recognizing the burnout signs is vital and being aware that this can be a hazard of this work can help one get through this phase. Caregiver burnout treatments are effective and include talking to a healthcare provider (doctor, psychologist, or social worker), taking care of yourself (rest don’t neglect your medical care), ASK FOR HELP (communicate to your support group, family friends, etc.), and find resources available to you (in-home care, adult day care, community meal programs, and support groups).

“You might need respite care which will provide a temporary break,” adds Santa Fromm. “Respite care can be scheduled in any timeframe that meets your needs from a few hours or days to several weeks. This option is beneficial especially if you are the primary caregiver. Time off allows you to relax, catch up and regroup.”

Remember you are no good to anyone when you are over tired and overwhelmed. Everyone needs a break!