Help for caregivers who are burned out

A caregiver is someone who takes care of most or all of the needs of a loved one or friend who can't take care of themselves anymore because they are sick, old, or disabled. Caregivers support their loved ones in many different places, like at home, in the hospital, on visits to nursing homes, and sometimes even from a distance.

Avoiding caregiver burnout: you don’t have to carry this alone

Caring for someone you love can be deeply meaningful, but it can also weigh heavily on you physically, emotionally, and financially. Even if you are the main caregiver, you don’t have to shoulder everything by yourself. Support comes in many forms, and the truth is this: the more you care for yourself, the better you will be able to care for your loved one.

The suggestions below are meant to help you guard against burnout and restore your strength.

Ask for help

Tell your family and friends when the responsibilities feel too heavy. Accept help when it’s offered, even if it’s something small. Some people will make specific offers, but you can also create a list of what’s needed and invite others to choose what they can do.

Lean on your faith or community

If you or your loved one belongs to a religious or spiritual community, this can be a strong source of support and encouragement.

Join a caregiver support group

Many hospitals, organizations, health care plans, and faith communities offer support groups. Being with people who understand what you’re facing can give you a safe place to vent, learn, and share ideas.

Keep good friends close
Sometimes the best gift is simply a listening ear. Seek out friends who lift you up, who don’t judge, and who let you speak freely. Ask if you can lean on them as a sounding board when you need it.

Bundle errands

Write out a weekly list of everything that needs doing—appointments, groceries, pharmacy, gas—and see what you can group together. Delegate where possible.

Protect family time

Even short, intentional moments matter. Set aside one meal, one outing, or one quiet evening each week with your partner or family. Allow yourself to let calls go to voicemail so you can be fully present.

Look for shortcuts

Batch your cooking, simplify housework, or allow yourself to let some things slide. If possible, hire help for the tasks that drain you most.

Remember: you can’t do it all

Grocery delivery, cleaning services, or respite care can give you space to breathe. Adult day care or family pitching in for paid help can ease the load.

Let go of guilt

Caregiving often stirs up guilt, but the truth is you are giving a great deal already. Give yourself credit for what you do, rather than dwelling on what you can’t.

Take care of your physique

Eat foods that are good for you, keep nutritious snacks on hand, and drink enough water. Every day, do something you enjoy that gets your body moving, like walking, stretching, or something else.

Take care of yourself

Give yourself little pleasures, like a bath, a favorite song, a lesson, or a meal out. These breaks are not luxuries; they are something you need to do to feel better.

Keep in touch

Don't let being a caregiver make you feel alone. You can feel less alone by calling someone, emailing them, going for a stroll with a buddy, or even having dinner with them.

Where you can, try to relax

Meditation, prayer, or deep breathing are all easy things you may do to calm your mind and let go of stress.

Photo by Kampus Production