Being a caregiver for a family member can be extremely rewarding and create an even closer relationship with that loved one. On the other hand, the constant pressure of being caregiver can often be exhausting, which can lead to stress and frustration, and subsequently to guilt and sadness. Many caregivers often experience burn-out, a situation where both their mental and physical health begin to suffer. This can leave the caregiver feeling unable to cope with their task in effectively performing care duties.
Recognizing when a caregiver needs help and support is crucial for both their well-being and that of the person being looked after. In this article we look at some of the common tell-tale signs that a caregiver is being overwhelmed by their role and may need some help and support…
Physical exhaustion
Being physically exhausted is one of the most common signs that a caregiver is not coping well. If a caregiver appears constantly tired and is experiencing frequent or recurring illnesses, these are both clear indicators that their body is under too much stress. Caregiving can be very physically demanding, involving lifting and moving activities. Ignoring the signs that a caregiver is physically exhausted can lead on to more serious health issues.
Emotional burnout
If a caregiver finds themselves feeling emotionally drained, isolated, stressed and anxious, they may well be experiencing emotional burnout. Caregiving can be draining on someone’s mental well-being. This can lead on to feelings of frustration, sadness, and even resentment for the person being looked after. It is essential that caregivers keep a check on their mental well-being and acknowledge and address any issues arising.
Self neglect
Many caregivers can easily slip into the pattern of putting their loved ones’ needs above their own. When this happens their personal health and well-being begin to suffer. Common signs of this include the caregiver skipping meals, neglecting exercise, neglecting their appearance and sacrificing sleep. If a caregiver is not taking care of their own basic needs, it’s a sign that they need help. Maintaining self care is a necessity for being able to care for others.
Isolation
Social isolation can quickly creep up on caregivers as they devote more and more of their time to caregiving duties. Over time they can lose touch with friends and other family members, miss social events and feel very much disconnected from their community. All of these are red flags that the caregiver is becoming isolated. Being isolated has a hugely negative impact on mental wellbeing. Maintaining social connections and engaging in activities outside the care environment is essential.
Irritability and anger
When a caregiver finds themselves becoming increasingly irritable and angry, it’s a sure sign that things are not right and that they are becoming overwhelmed in their care duties. Of course, having these feelings can cause the caregiver resentment and affect their relationship with the person being cared for, as well as with other family members. It’s important for caregivers to recognize the signs that they are not coping emotionally, and to seek out help and support.
Work performance decline
Many caregivers will try to balance their care duties alongside any employment they have. This can be particularly challenging and can lead to any combination of the tell-tale signs listed above. When a caregiver cannot cope, there is often a marked notice in their levels of work performance and in increased absenteeism. Luckily, many employers now offer support programs for their employees who are also caregivers.
Health Problems
Both physical and mental health issues only get worse if not addressed. Common unaddressed health issues caregivers often complain about include frequent headaches, back and joint pain, as well as high blood pressure. These health issues can easily escalate to much more serious conditions if not addressed. It is essential that caregivers continue to practice self care by going for regular check-ups with their healthcare provider.
Conclusion
These are the main signs that all is not well with a caregiver, and that they need help and support. Too often caregivers put their own needs second to the person they are caring for. Ignoring their own physical and mental health can lead to burnout, resulting in them not being able to affectively provide their care duties. Seeking assistance is not a sign of failure but a necessary part of being an effective and compassionate caregiver.
At Selectacare we understand how passionate and dedicated family caregivers are. When needed, we can also be there to assist in caregiving for your loved one at any level required. Why not talk to us today to see how we can help both you and the person you are caring for.