Being a caregiver is a very rewarding career. It can also be extremely stressful. Depending on who you are caring for and what your duties include, many people develop caregiver stress syndrome.
Many people find themselves in a caregiver role when family members need help. This can lead to burning out. Often people already have other family to care for, jobs, and other commitments.
Whether you care for a family member, friend, or you are a caregiver by profession, caregiver stress syndrome is a real threat. Make sure you take steps to avoid it before it is too late.
Caregiver Stress Symptoms to Watch For
You may find you are suffering from a few symptoms or from several. Here are a few to be aware of:
- Sleep deprived
- Depressed
- Physical fatigue
- Headaches
- Withdrawals
- Irritable
- Feeling helpless
- Feeling alone
- Health problems
- Lashing out
- Easily angered
- Health issues
Any of these symptoms may mean you are living with caregiver stress or burnout. It’s important that you are able to recognize these issues for what they are and take steps to reduce them.
Practical Ways to Help Alleviate Caregiver Stress
Self-Care
You have heard it before, but unless you take care of yourself, you are not much good to anyone else. Recognize you need a break, and take care of yourself first.
Sleep
Self-care means getting better sleep. Without a proper night of sleep, you can’t function. You can even become a danger if driving, reading others’ needs, and the inability to focus.
Set a bedtime and stick to it. Start getting ready for bed at least half an hour before. Shut off all your devices, take a warm bath, and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Exercise
Take a daily walk, go for a swim, ride your bike, or hit the gym. Whatever you do, take some kind of exercise. This will help to relieve a lot of built-up stress.
If you like team sports, join a club. There are plenty of ways to get exercise without expensive equipment and memberships. Watch yoga videos online and start a routine.
Diet
It can be difficult to eat regular healthy meals as a caregiver. But it is important that you try. Grabbing a bite when you can wreak havoc on your entire system.
Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, and avoid processed foods, sugars, sodium, and foods high in fats. Try to eat at the same time every day to help keep your body regulated.
Hobbies
Keep doing the things that bring you joy. Making time for these will allow you to let off steam, and take you to your happy place. Always make time for the things you love to do.
Having fun is important. Even if you just meet some friends for a movie or a drink. It’s important to allow yourself to forget about your charge for a little while.
Take Time Off
Don’t feel guilty about needing time away. You can hire a professional caregiver to relieve you or get other family members to lend a hand.
There is no reason why you should shoulder the entire caregiving task. If you are the only family member, reach out to other family, or caregiver agencies.
Connect
You need to talk about what you are going through. If you are caring for a family member, share with your other family members. It’s better if you share with people who are going through the same emotions that you are.
There are groups and forums available to share your experiences. These are people living the same stresses and will not only understand but will also have their own coping mechanisms to share with you.
Be Realistic
Just because the person receiving care is your parent or spouse doesn’t mean the entire burden has to fall on you. You need to set realistic goals and be okay with them.
Consider getting your loved one a Medical Alert System. Your loved one will have 24/7 access to help at the press of a button. This way you know they are protected even if you are not with them.
Caring for Yourself While Caring for Others
Caregiving is both a rewarding and challenging journey. Acknowledging the impact of stress and taking intentional steps to manage it allows you to care for yourself while continuing to support your loved ones.
Seeking help, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care are not signs of weakness—they are vital acts of strength. By focusing on your well-being, you ensure that you can provide the compassionate, effective care your role requires.