What is caregiver burnout
Caregiver burnout is a type of burnout which is characterized by physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that occurs when individuals provide long-term care for someone in need. It often affects family members or friends who take on the responsibility of caring for a loved one with a chronic illness, disability, or age-related condition. The demands of caregiving can be overwhelming, leaving caregivers feeling drained and depleted.
When thinking of caregiving, many people might first consider the example of an adult taking care of a parent with dementia. However, caregiving actually encompasses a wide array of activities and behaviours.
Caregiving can include helping to care for someone with:
- a physical health condition such as cancer
- a physical disability
- an intellectual disability
- a neurodegenerative disease
- a mental health diagnosis (ie. schizophrenia; depression; bipolar disorder)
- an addiction
Typically, we think of adults caring for parents. Other variations that can occur in caregiving include:
- minors caregiving for family members
- parents caregiving for their adult children
- parents caring for children with complex needs
- grandparents caregiving for grandchildren
- a spouse caring for their partner
- caregiving for an extended family member or non-relative
The symptoms of caregiver burnout can vary from person to person, but common signs include:
- chronic fatigue
- sleep disturbances
- feeling irritable
- feelings of hopelessness
Caregivers may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues, and weakened immune systems. These symptoms can significantly impact the caregiver’s overall well-being and quality of life.
Causes of caregiver burnout
One of the main causes of caregiver burnout is the constant stress and pressure associated with the role. The demand for attention and support can cause caregivers to feel overwhelmed and exhausted. Caregiving stress can be caused by the actual demands of caregiving such as:
- managing medications
- attending appointments and transportation requirements
- assistance with complicated planning
- personal care tasks
Caregiver stress and burnout can also be related to frequent worry or anxiety for the recipient. Worry thoughts of caregivers commonly include:
- what if they are not okay to leave with respite
- what is the future going to look like
- what if financial support becomes an issue
Many people that end up in caregiving roles feel unprepared to take on the responsibility and may not feel as though they had a choice.
They may experiences thoughts and feelings such as:
- feelings of resentment towards the recipient and situation
- frustration with the impact on daily life
- desire for caregiving responsibilities to pause or end
- sadness and grief
- feelings of guilt for experiencing emotions such as resentment or frustration
Additionally, the lack of personal time and social isolation can contribute to caregiver burnout. Many caregivers sacrifice their own needs and interests to prioritize the well-being of their loved ones.
This selflessness can lead to:
- feelings of loneliness
- isolation from their own social connections and supports
- struggling to find time for their own care tasks
- difficulties with or interruptions to sleep
- lack of nutrition and physical activity
- seeking out numbing behaviours
- conflict or tensions in close relationships
Caregiver burnout recovery
Caregiver burnout recovery is a multifaceted and requires a holistic approach to address the physical, emotional, and psychological toll of providing care to others. Accessing support services and resources tailored to caregivers is crucial.
Therapy sessions can offer a safe space for caregivers to express their feelings, explore coping strategies, and develop resilience. Additionally, support groups and community resources can provide valuable connections with others experiencing similar stressors, fostering a sense of understanding and solidarity. Prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and seeking assistance when needed are essential components of caregiver burnout recovery.
How counselling can help
Working with a psychologist or mental health therapist can be beneficial for caregivers experiencing burnout. There are a number of areas that therapy for the caregiver can focus, some of which include:
- addressing grief and loss
- treat anxiety symptoms and helping to develop a balanced view of responsibility and control
- navigating conflict in relationships
- problem-solving and addressing barriers to self-care and boundaries
