‘I Am So Tired of Being a Caregiver:’ Tips For Caregiver Burnout

Close-up of an elderly person in a blue dress clasping hands with her caregiver,.

Caring for an aging relative or friend is one of the most selfless acts of love. Yet, it’s also one of the most demanding responsibilities you might face. If you’ve ever thought, “I am so tired of being a caregiver,” know that you’re not alone in these feelings, and they don’t diminish your compassion or commitment.

Keep reading to learn more about caregiver burnout and how you can keep yourself from feeling overwhelmed.

What Is Caregiver Burnout and How Common Is It?

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that occurs when caregivers don’t get the help they need or try to do more than they’re able to.

According to AARP research, caregivers report that time and money are their biggest challenges. An overwhelming 78% of caregivers experience regular out-of-pocket costs, spending an average of $7,242 annually on caregiving activities—which represents about 26% of their income. Meanwhile, 72% of caregivers report experiencing emotional stress as they navigate their caregiving journey, often while trying to balance work responsibilities.

When you become a caregiver, you often take on roles that can be physically demanding, emotionally draining, and even financially straining, all while trying to balance your own life and responsibilities.

Understanding the Signs of Caregiver Burnout

Recognizing burnout early can help you address it before it significantly impacts your health and well-being. Common symptoms of caregiver burnout include:

Feeling constantly tired or overwhelmed
Sleeping too much or too little
Gaining or losing weight
Becoming easily irritated or angry
Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
Feeling sad, hopeless, or helpless
Experiencing frequent headaches or body pain
Abusing alcohol or medications to cope

What Causes Burnout?

Several things can lead to caregiver burnout. Many caregivers find it hard to separate being a caregiver from being a child, spouse, or friend to the person they’re caring for. This makes it difficult to step back and see things clearly. Caregivers often expect too much from themselves, thinking their care will significantly improve their loved one’s health, even when dealing with conditions that will get worse over time no matter what.

Feeling like you have no control makes things worse. Limited money, not knowing enough about medical conditions, and little community support often leave caregivers feeling helpless. Many caregivers also put too much pressure on themselves, thinking they must do everything perfectly and alone, not realizing there are other care options that could give them much-needed relief.

How To Recharge and Destress After Burnout

If you’re experiencing burnout, take action for both your health and the quality of care you can provide:

Find someone to talk to about your feelings. This could be a friend, family member, counselor, or support group for caregivers.
Set realistic goals and accept that you may need help with caregiving. Focus on what you can reasonably accomplish. Consider calling on the help of others or respite care.
Take breaks. Even brief breaks can help you recharge. Step outside for fresh air, enjoy a cup of tea, or practice brief meditation.
Prioritize your health. Make time for adequate sleep, healthy eating, and physical activity. Schedule and keep your own medical appointments.

Benefits of Professional In-Home Care

Sometimes the best way to care for your loved one is to seek professional help. In-home care services provide experienced caregivers who can assist with daily tasks, medication management, companionship, and more. Many families are surprised to learn about the various payment options that make professional care more affordable, including long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, and flexible scheduling options.

Professional care doesn’t just benefit your loved one. It gives you the chance to rest, take care of your own needs, and return to your caregiving role with renewed energy and perspective.

You Deserve Support, Too

Remember that caring for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. By addressing burnout and seeking help when needed, you’ll be better equipped to provide quality care for your loved one.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities, call Home & Hearth Caregivers today at 800-349-0663 to learn how our compassionate in-home care services can support both you and your loved one.