Mental Health

How to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

By Dynne C. | Update Date: Nov 24, 2023 01:18 AM EST

November is National Family Caregivers Month, the perfect time to recognize the caregivers in the country. Behind their efforts is the unnoticed sacrifice of their health and well-being.

A caregiver's dedication to their job is remarkable -- they sometimes forget about themselves while ensuring that their patient receives the best care possible. In a recent survey, 53 percent of caregivers admitted to making career sacrifices, 42 percent delayed their retirement plans and 15 percent plan to quit their jobs in the next six months to focus on caregiving. In addition, 40 percent said they would take a pay cut in exchange for flexibility for caregiving.

If you are a caregiver, you probably know how rewarding the job is. But let's face it, no job does not come with its frustrations. When this dedication gets out of hand, it could lead to burnout, which is difficult to come back from. Here's how to avoid caregiver burnout

Accept your humanity

Getting frustrated at your job is normal, and it is human. Do not give yourself a hard time if you find yourself getting angry or having negative feelings about your responsibilities to the person you care for. Give yourself some time to breathe before getting back to work. If things get overwhelming, talk to a trusted friend, reach out for help, or consult an expert. 

Set realistic goals

It is undeniable that caregiving can be exhausting. Set realistic goals you believe you can accomplish without leading yourself to fatigue - a common issue in caregiving. Try building a routine that works for you, and consider getting help if you need to. 

Take care of yourself

Remember that you cannot take care of other people when you are not well, so be sure to take care of yourself. This means eating healthily, exercising and practicing self-care habits.

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