Caregiver Burnout

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that can happen when you dedicate time and energy to manage the health and safety of someone else. Caregivers who experience burnout may feel tired, stressed, withdrawn, anxious and depressed. Caregiver burnout can impact a person in various ways, including physically, psychologically, financially and socially.

Studies show that more than 60% of caregivers experience symptoms of burnout. Cleveland Clinic

In 2019 the World Health Organization (WHO) officially classified burnout under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD11-QD85).

WHO’S AT RISK

Because caregiver devote a significant amount of their time, energy and resources to caring for others, its not uncommon for them to forget or neglect to take care of themselves. This lack of self-care coupled with increase levels of stress, particularly when caring for someone who may have a significant disability or illness and lead to burnout. Caregivers taking care of elderly parents, as well as new parents or working parents (typically mothers) can experience caregiver burnout.

Caregivers are risk include those:

• Are unable to engage in regular self-care or get respite from caregiving

• Have unreasonable demands placed on them

• Have too many responsibilities placed on them

• Feel inadequate or incompetent (their role as a caregiver is unclear)

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF BURNOUT  

Some of the signs and symptoms for caregivers experiencing Caregiver or Domestic Burnout can include:

• Emotional and physical exhaustion.

• Withdrawal from friends, family and other loved ones.

• Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed.

• Feeling of hopeless and/or helpless.

• Changes in appetite and/or weight.

• Changes in sleep patterns.

• Inability to concentrate or focus

• Poor immune system / Getting sick more often.

• Increased irritability, frustration or anger toward others.

Consequences of burnout

Caregiver burnout is unique

Medical research shows that ignoring or putting offing burnout can have significant consequences, including:

• Headaches

• Fatigue

• Insomnia

• Depression

• Alcohol or substance abuse

• Anxiety

• High blood pressure

• Type 2 diabetes

• Vulnerability to illnesses

GETTING HELP 

There are few things more frustrating than feeling like you're stuck in a never-ending cycle of burnout. Whether it's a never-ending stream of essays or a continuous pile of readings, at some point, it all feels like too much. That's where we come in. We know that everyone's needs are different, that’s why coaching support is tailored to each individual. So if you're feeling overwhelmed by your academic work, don't hesitate to reach out to us. You are not alone.

Schedule a free consult today.