4 Signs of Caregiver Burnout to Watch Out For

According to the Harvard Gazette, more than half of all healthcare workers are stressed and overworked.

But these feelings aren’t limited to just the healthcare field. Caregivers are also feeling the burn.

Being responsible for the daily care of others is an enormous responsibility. However, practicing self-care is just as important, maybe even more so.

Are you on the brink of burnout? Here are four signs caregivers should watch out for.

What Is Caregiver Burnout?

Burnout is a state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion due to prolonged and excessive stress levels. This can cause changes to your emotions, attitude, and even job performance.

Many factors can lead to caregiver burnout, including:

• Poor self-care
• Unrealistic expectations
• A lack of resources, including time, money, and skill sets
• No social support system

Caregivers must have the proper tools and coping strategies to avoid burnout and take great care of themselves and their clients.

4 Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout

Here are four common signs of caregiver burnout to keep an eye out for. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek help immediately.

1. Exhaustion

Do you feel tired even after a restful night’s sleep? Are you having trouble dragging yourself out of bed? Is your mind groggy, or is your thinking less sharp than usual?

Physical and mental exhaustion can be warning indicators that you’re burnt out.

2. Loss of Interest

Another red flag to watch out for is if you’re losing interest in activities or hobbies that once brought you joy. If you’re feeling detached or withdrawn from your friends and family, you should ask for help.

3. Significant Changes in Attitude

Are you typically a bright and bubbly person? If you’ve experienced a sudden shift in attitude, you might be experiencing caregiver burnout. Feeling cynical, suddenly hating your job, and becoming easily frustrated are all red flags you should never ignore.

4. Physical Pains

Caregiver burnout can affect much more than your attitude and emotions. It can also cause physical symptoms, such as severe headaches and bowel or stomach pain.

Preventing Caregiver Burnout

It’s essential for Eagle, CO caregivers to take care of themselves. This ensures they avoid burnout, feel their best, and provide quality care to their clients.

A few tips for preventing caregiver burnout include:

• Developing a strong support network of friends, relatives, and co-workers 
• Giving yourself permission to take breaks, pamper yourself, and spend time with loved ones 
• Setting realistic goals and expectations 
• Joining a support group 
• Talking to a professional, like a therapist, clergy member, or social worker 
• Taking advantage of caregiver respite services

If you think you’re burnout, understand there is no shame in asking for help. You may feel alone, but you’re not.

Work for a Company That Takes Care of You

In addition to providing award-winning in-home caregiving services to our clients, Visiting Angels takes great care of our people. We value our team members and treat them with the respect, kindness, and empathy they deserve.

Want to join our company? Explore our employment opportunities throughout Aspen, Glenwood Springs, Eagle, CO, and the surrounding areas. Or contact us today by calling 970-328-5526.