6 Steps to Avoid Caregiver Fatigue
Being an in home Caregiver for loved ones who are suffering from chronic illnesses can be demanding and stressful. Many caregivers of loved ones sacrifice large amounts of their own life, without support, taking on more than they are realistically capable of – physically, mentally and financially. For this reason, caregiver fatigue is a serious problem that faces many who have loved ones who need long-term care.
Some of the hallmarks of caregiver fatigue, also known as caregiver burnout, is a constant feeling of exhaustion, a persistent negative attitude, and apathy or melancholy which won’t let go. Caregiving is exhausting on many levels – mentally, emotionally and physically – and caring for one’s self can become a challenge as more and more of attention shifts to the person needing care. This self-neglect can initiate a cycle of stress and exhaustion and leave the caregiver susceptible to illnesses like colds or flu. Depression and anxiety are also part of this problem, which also can lead to more serious health conditions.
To help you cope with caregiver fatigue, here are six steps to overcome the negative effects of caring for a sick loved one.
- Ask for Help! This is the first and most important step – if you struggle with the daily burden of caregiving, ask for help. Get friends or family to help with mundane tasks like cleaning or grocery shopping mean that you will have more quality time caring for your loved one.
- Learn More about Caregiving. Many caregivers are thrust into the role without an operator’s manual, and the process is overwhelming enough for someone who knows what they’re doing. Books, workshops, online training materials and other resources are available to teach you about the illness, caring for it and behavior management.
- Find a Support Group. Look in your local area for a caregiver support group. Many areas feature one, and if you can’t find one, start one. You’ll soon find that you are not alone, and learning from others who share your challenges will help you to overcome caregiver fatigue.
- Learn to Manage Stress. Caregiving for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s can be stressful and emotionally taxing – many say it’s the most stressful thing they have ever done. Regularly practice deep breathing, meditation, yoga or other calming exercises to tap into your body’s ability to relax so you can keep those stress levels under control.
- Take Care of Yourself. While you’re caring for a loved one, don’t forget that you need care, too. Regular doctor’s visits can help you keep one step ahead of some of the pitfalls of caregiver stress. Pay attention to the signs and symptoms of caregiver fatigue and take action when you recognize an issue.
- Take Time Off. Don’t let yourself get to a point where you can’t take a break. Abandoning the people you love and the things and activities you enjoy will take a toll on you. Make time to keep those things in your life, maintain your friendships and social contacts, devote time to hobbies and interests and always make room for your own joy.
Caregiver fatigue is a serious problem, so if you feel yourself burning out, take immediate action. This is a real issue with serious consequences, but it can be alleviated with just a few changes in your life to improve your caregiving-life balance.
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