How to Recover From Care Giver Burnout

Caregiver burnout is a common occurrence for those working either professionally or personally caring after the needs of the infirmed. Depression, anxiety, mental and physical fatigue, appetite loss and changes in sleep patterns and your health may all indicate you are suffering from caregiver burnout. Caregivers are so wrapped up in caring for others, they often neglect their own needs and feel guilty when not spending time with others. Taking good care of yourself should be your number one priority when thrust into a caregiver role--a healthier you will aid you in taking care of your patients.

Instructions

• 1

  Admit and accept your feelings and emotions and allow yourself to grieve, feel angry, frustrated or resentful while spending time with friends, family and counselors who can listen to you and offer support and encouragement. Stuffing your emotions down is unhealthy and will lead to deep-seeded resentment which can later harm the care of your patient.

• 2

  Become better educated and more equipped to take care of your patient's illness. Many experienced professionals have dealt with the issues you are facing and can offer insightful advice and tips that will make your caregiving experience easier and more fulfilling for you.

• 3

  Take a break by utilizing respite care services. Respite care can come through friends, church members, family members or professionals who come in to relieve you either for a day, a few hours, or maybe weeks at a time while you recover. This should be done a minimum of one half day weekly, to keep you from experiencing future burnout.

• 4

  Delineate between your personal time and work time by creating specific rituals that create for you an experience of 'release' and off-time. Even if you are living with the infirmed, when they are sleeping you can develop habits that focus around your "me" time, such as hot baths, a relaxing book or a special meal.

• 5

  Combat burnout by feeding yourself healthy foods, exercising, and avoiding caffeine, sugar and high-fat foods. Avoid self-medicating yourself to sleep with alcohol or drugs and instead create relaxing rituals through stretching, deep breathing and relaxation tapes.