Caregiver Stress Syndrome is a condition in which a caregiver experiences physical, emotional and mental exhaustion. Typically, this occurs when a caregiver neglects their own physical and emotional health because they are focused on caring for an ill, injured, disabled or aging loved one. They also often try to take on more responsibility than they should and can feel guilty about taking time for themselves.
Signs of caregiver stress syndrome:
- Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried
- Feeling tired often
- Getting too much sleep or not enough sleep
- Gaining or losing weight
- Becoming easily irritated or angry
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Feeling sad
- Having frequent headaches, bodily pain or other physical problems
- Misusing alcohol or drugs
In addition to the signs of Caregiver Stress Syndrome, it’s also important to know that caregiver burnout is not a one-size-fits-all problem. There are stages of caregiver burnout that you may move in and out of, and may occur in a seemingly random order.
Caregiver Stress Relief Tips:
- Accept help by preparing a list of ways that others can help you and let them choose what they would like to do. If friends or family members cannot help, hire a local in-home caregiver to support you.
- Break down large tasks into smaller projects that you can do one at a time. Prioritize your day by setting realistic goals.
- Learn to say “no” and avoid taking on too many other responsibilities.
- Search out local and online resources to help you identify and address any changes you are facing due to caregiver stress. Health central is a helpful resource to learn more about causes, symptoms, and treatments related to stress and depression.
- Join a local support group. Finding people who have gone or are going through what you are experiencing can provide validation, encouragement and problem-solving strategies.
- Find time each day to relax, rest, exercise or simply do something you enjoy.
- Take time off from your responsibilities as a primary caregiver so that you can focus on yourself for a while. Respite care services allow you to take a couple of hours, an entire day, overnight or even longer-term if needed so you can take care of yourself without compromising the quality of care and attention your loved one needs.
The Importance of Managing Caregiver Stress
As a family caregiver, you must address signs of stress and make your own health a priority so that you can continue to provide care for your loved one. Learning how to avoid caregiver stress in the first place will make your caregiving experience more rewarding for both you and the person you care for.
Now more than ever, family caregivers are faced with the stress that comes with caring for an aging loved one. It’s no secret that being a caregiver is hard, but our free 8 Ways to Deal with Caregiver Stress guide offers tips and strategies on how to accept and manage stress while you take on the responsibility of caregiving.
Maybe you’re not the caregiver, but you’re wondering how to support a friend who is a caregiver. If that’s the case, feel free to forward them this article. In either scenario, FirstLight Home Care is committed to supporting the many caregivers offering their time and energy so selflessly.
If you’d like to know more about how FirstLight Home Care can assist with Caregiver Stress Syndrome and respite care to give family caregivers a break, contact our team for a consultation and personalized care plan today!