There’s a lot to be said about looking out for number one, especially if you’re a caregiver. Being a caregiver is exceptionally demanding in multiple mental and physical ways. Many caregivers suffer from symptoms of burnout, stress or experience health problems of their own due to the ongoing strain. While there are many rewards involved in caring for someone else, there are also many challenges, and if you are a caregiver, you should be vigilant about maintaining your own good health.
If you learn to recognize some signs of stress that are common to caregivers and follow some simple guidelines for self-care, you can protect your own health and make yourself a better overall caregiver in the process.
Warning Signs of Caregiver Stress
It is common for a caregiver to become fixated on the needs of the loved one being cared for and overlook his or her own needs. This is the most frequent cause of caregiver stress and burnout.
It’s essential that you understand some of the warning signs of these afflictions so you can head them off at the pass before they affect your health. Consider the following symptoms and evaluate yourself to determine if you’re suffering from any of them. If you feel you are, you may need to pause for a moment and figure out ways to offer yourself the same level of care you provide to others. Here are some of signs that you are overdoing it:
- You’re always tired and want to sleep more than normal.
- You feel emotionally drained, worried, overwhelmed and/or anxious much of the time.
- You’ve lost interest in hobbies and social events that you used to enjoy.