This article is a must read if you are feeling trapped, depressed, or even hopeless. This is very common! You are not alone! Remember - you are a hero to your loved ones even if they do not recognize it, and even if you do not recognize it in yourself. Once you recognize the signs of caregiver burnout you can seek and implement solutions.

Link: Causes and Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout (Source: John Hopkins Medicine)

Following is an outline of this excellent article from John Hopkins Medicine. Please follow the link to benefit from the full insights of the article.

Burnout is a state of emotional exhaustion that results from failing, wearing out, or feeling totally used up due to too many demands on one’s energy, strength, or resources.

Causes of caregiver burnout may include:

• Emotional demands resulting from the care receivers’ condition.

• Conflicting demands. 

• Ambiguity of roles. 

• Work load. 

• Conflicting policies and procedures. 

• Lack of privacy.

These factors may contribute to feelings of:

• Lack of mastery

• Lack of autonomy. 

• Failure to achieve goals. Feeling you can’t succeed, or that you’re a failure.

When burnout reaches a critical level, it begins to be very evident in a caregiver’s life. Burnout can manifest itself in various ways, including:

• Depression

• Withdrawal

• Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness

• Negative emotions

• Physical fatigue

• Sleep deprivation or sleep disorders

• Abuse of care receiver(s)

• Neglect of care receiver(s)

• Personal health problems

• Lowered self-esteem

Link: Causes and Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout (Source: John Hopkins Medicine)