Caregiving

Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Caregiver Stress

Caregiving can be rewarding, but it can also become overwhelming if you’re not taking time to practice self-care. If you are caring for a family member or loved one, look out for the common signs and symptoms of caregiver burnout and take steps to attend to your own physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

Common signs and symptoms of caregiver burnout include:

  • Anxiety

  • Irritability

  • Depression

  • Apathy

  • Changes in sleep

  • Fatigue

  • Mood swings

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Decreased sex drive

  • Relationship issues

  • Changes in weight

  • Physical ailments

  • Interpersonal problems

Tips for Taking Care of Yourself

Take care of you

  • Be sure to consider your own physical needs. Often when you are taking good care of yourself, you can provide better care for your loved one.

Ask for and accept help

  • It’s often challenging for caregivers to ask for help. Remember asking for help is not a sign of weakness or a way of shirking your duties. Trying to do everything on your own can quickly lead to burnout.

Look for humor

  • Finding funny stories may sometimes seem mean or disrespectful, but it’s healthy to make moments of laughter with those you care for.

Get organized and prioritize

  • Make a list of all the things you do to care for your loved one. This can help you gain clarity and educate friends and family who may not be aware of your efforts.

Make use of community resources

  • It’s sometimes challenging to find the caregiving resources you need. Keep an eye out for helpful guides and community programs that can help.

Contact Us

For more helpful resources, visit CarolinaCaring.org/publications-resources.