When Is It Time to Seek Help as a Caregiver?
Taking care of a senior can be rewarding, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy emotionally, physically, or mentally. In some cases, being a caregiver can lead to exhaustion and anxiety, which may be referred to as caregiver burnout. It is important to understand the first signs of burnout so that you can seek help as a caregiver to ease the burden and ensure your loved one is getting the appropriate level of care.
What is Caregiver Burnout?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, “caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion.” Since caregivers often are so busy caring for others, they tend to neglect their own health.
By knowing the signs of caregiver burnout, you may be able to decide when you should seek help from a palliative or hospice care service.
Caregiver Burnout Symptoms
Caregiver burnout symptoms often include but not limited to:
- Irritability
- Withdrawal from loved ones
- Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Emotional and physical exhaustion
- Feeling hopeless or helpless
- Excessive eating
- Losing temper more often
What Causes Caregiver Burnout?
There are several reasons why a caregiver may feel burnout, including:
Constant Demands
Being a caregiver requires giving a lot of attention to the person being cared for, which may conflict with your other demands in life. Everyone has needs, and if the caregiver is a spouse and has children, they are most likely dealing with several different requests at a time.
Work Load
As if taking care of someone full-time isn’t already a tasking job, the caregiver’s workload may be too much to handle. From assessing medical needs and basic needs to helping with housekeeping and preparing meals, there may be too much to do for one person.
Role Confusion
Many caregivers feel as if they have no choice in taking on their caregiving role. It can be challenging for the caregiver to separate their role as a caregiver from their role as a child or spouse.
Unrealistic Expectations
Caregivers often expect that their loved one’s health depends on their care. They often feel as if sometimes they are letting themselves or their loved one down. However, this is why caregivers must never get into the job with expectations.
Contact Pallatus Health
You aren’t alone. Our team at Pallatus Health is always available and happy to help you navigate these challenging times. Please contact us at (818) 725-1025 or schedule an appointment here.
