Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver Fatigue & Burnout…
Get ready because this is big & it’s truth time here.
Do you remember the emergency procedure on an airplane? Place your oxygen mask on before your child or who you are responsible for.
It may not feel like it, but NOW is the emergency preparedness time for YOU. As a previous caregiver myself, I had a hard time taking that message in and did all the things while not supporting myself. I can tell you what is likely on the other side of that…..
Mental and Physical Depletion! If we’re not even 70% of ourselves, we are nothing for the person(s) we are caring for.
Is that really true? Absolutely! When our bodies and mind are not running at optimum, we don’t handle those bumps, bruises, rumbles and tumbles as well as we usually would. When our energy is not being replenished, we are setting ourselves up to be more prone to physical injuries, affected by emotional upsets, and brain function not running smoothly that drain us even more. As a caregiver, that leaves us with not being fully present for that person(s) and can even bring up resentments.
It’s time to replenish your energy and not feel guilty about it. This will look different for all of us.
Take at least a few minutes for yourself each day.
Examples: Getting regularly scheduled Acupuncture Treatments, getting a massage, taking walks, yoga or stretching, taking your dog for a walk, tea or coffee with a friend in person or on zoom, meditation, etc.
If you are in a caregiver situation where it is difficult to find someone to cover, get creative. And we’re here to talk about ideas.
Listed below are some suggested links of where to find some assistance for caretaking, as well as support for yourself:
• National Alliance for Caregiving
(Information to support for you as a caregiver, support for taking care of a loved one and / or learning about physical or mental ailments)
• Some sites for finding caregivers if you need help, breaks or time away:
• Support Groups that may be available in your area through:
• Helpful Podcast on Spotify & Burnout Coaching:
FRIED. The Burnout Podcast.(Cait Donovan & Sarah Vosen - Burnout Coaches)
https://www.friedtheburnoutpodcast.com
A Suggested Episode: Michelle Melendez: Caregivers- Burnout, Guilt and Mental Health