Caring for others is a rewarding calling and an important part of life. There are four common types of caregiving: family caregivers, professional caregivers, volunteer caregivers, and informal caregivers.  Each type of caregiver experiences different kinds of stress that can affect them physically, emotionally, financially, and even spiritually.

When people constantly give without prioritizing their own needs and well-being, they can easily slip into caregiver burnout.

What is Caregiver Burnout?

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. Caregiver burnout can impair your perception and ability to perform everyday tasks or work, and can include the following:

• Feelings of being on edge or constantly worrying

• Feelings of constant exhaustion

• Frequent physical problems such as body aches or pain

• Noticeable changes in sleep or weight

• Constantly being susceptible to illnesses 

• Feelings of cynicism or disassociation

• Withdrawal from social connections

• Becoming easily upset or angry

• Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy

• Abuse of alcohol or drugs- prescription or illicit

What Causes Caregiver Burnout?

Caregiver burnout is caused by a multitude of factors.  Many people have multiple roles in their lives, and they constantly care for others day in and day out. Some of us have multiple jobs. Some may work a full shift, then get off and must care for aging parents or immediate family. Constantly giving yourself to others without caring for yourself is one of the main factors that leads to caregiver burnout. Some of the other risk factors for burnout may include:

• Lack of boundaries

• Emotionally demanding situations

• Physically demanding roles

• Overworking

• Financial strains

• Ambiguous roles and responsibilities

• Lack of support

•  Lack of autonomy

• Perfectionism

•  Unrealistic expectations

What Can You Do to Prevent or Treat Caregiver Burnout?

Caregiver burnout can be prevented or treated with a variety of self-care options. Developing a sense of self-compassion is critical to being successful in treatment. Some people have difficulty making time for self-care, and it is important to remember that people are not machines. If you continue to push yourself beyond your limits while ignoring your needs, you will be in a constant state of burnout. Even Superman takes his cape off every day. Some of the ways you can prevent or treat caregiver burnout are:

• Asking for help

• Knowing your limits

• Having firm boundaries

• Focusing on achievable goals

• Developing a sense of awareness

• Taking care of your physical health

• Exercising

• Taking breaks

• Communicating your needs

If anything in this article impacts you or you need support, remember that you are not alone. We are here for you. Connect with Methodist EAP today. For convenient, confidential help, call 901.683.5658. In-person and telehealth services are available based on your preference. Visit us online at www.methodisteapcanhelp.org.

Steven Smith

Counselor

Steven Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider designation. He received his bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in Marketing from The University of Tennessee at Martin and his master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Memphis. Steven has experience counseling teens, adults and geriatrics in various settings, including inpatient, outpatient, and residential. He is a native Memphian who wears his local pride on his sleeve. He is passionate about encouraging holistic wellness through emotional harmony and maintaining a presence through life’s adversities. Steven specializes in helping those with issues related to anxiety, depression, stress, and emotional processing. Steven loves spending time with his friends, discovering new music, traveling, and learning new things.