Common Causes of Caregiver Burnout

• Living with the care recipient or providing round-the-clock care
• Financial difficulties
• Lack of caregiving knowledge or professional guidance
• Feeling forced into caregiving with no option for relief
• Poor coping mechanisms or stress management strategies

When does stress turn into burnout? Stress feels like constant worry, but burnout feels like constant exhaustion—leaving you too drained to feel anything beyond hopelessness.

Signs and Symptoms of Burnout

Recognising the signs early is crucial. Look out for:

• Constant fatigue and low energy
• Frequent illnesses or body aches
• Feeling irritable or hopeless
• Difficulty relaxing even with help
• Neglecting personal needs or hobbies
• Losing a sense of meaning or fulfillment in caregiving
• Depression, insomnia, or mood swings
• Avoiding loved ones or isolating yourself
• Turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like substance use or overspending

Apart from these signs, caregivers experiencing burnout also tend to feel a significant increase in negative emotions: towards themselves, their care recipient, and even loved ones around them.

Caregiving is a rewarding but demanding role. It’s okay to feel exhausted or frustrated at times. Remember, it's okay to acknowledge when you're feeling overwhelmed—your well-being matters too. By recognising burnout and taking proactive steps, you ensure the best care for yourself and your loved one.

If you would like to learn how to manage these emotions, check out some tips on mindset strategies that can help you overcome burnout here.