Inside look

Inside look

Inside look

Inside look

finding cooper's voice

Kate Swenson

5 Ways to Prevent Caregiver Burnout

A caregiver—sometimes called an informal caregiver—is an unpaid individual (for example, a spouse, a parent, family member, friend, or neighbor) involved in assisting others with activities of daily living and/or medical tasks.

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Approximately 43.5 million caregivers have provided unpaid care to an adult or child in the last 12 months. [National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP. (2015). Caregiving in the U.S.]

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what is caregiver burnout?

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. It may go along with a change in attitude -- from positive and caring to negative and unconcerned.

The symptoms of caregiver burnout are much like the symptoms of stress and depression. They may include: – Withdrawal from friends and family – Feeling blue, cranky, hopeless, and helpless – Changes in appetite, weight, or both – Getting sick more often – Emotional and physical exhaustion – Using alcohol and/or sleep medications too much

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self-care /ˌselfˈker/ noun 1. the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one's own health."autonomy in self-care and insulin administration"

Why is self-care important?

Because you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Take micro breaks Anytime you can put that load of stress down will help, even if it’s only for 5 minutes.

Get support; whether it's online or in-person, the sense of community will be invaluable. 

Learn to accept help from others. 

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Talk with a professional therapist. And ask about telehealth. 

Give yourself some appreciation.  A lack of appreciation is discouraging for caregivers and can easily fester into resentment. TIP: Join an online support group to hear kind words.