Stress caused by caring for a loved one
Have you noticed that looking after a loved one is becoming increasingly difficult? Perhaps you’re doing a lot on autopilot. You organise, help, listen, drive, make calls and keep an eye on everything. Meanwhile, you’re noticing that your own energy levels are dwindling. That’s an important sign. Caring for someone you love can be rewarding, but it can also be a strain. Especially if the care is long-term or demands more and more of you. Burnout often creeps up on you gradually. That is precisely why it is important to take the warning signs seriously and not wait until you are completely exhausted.
What do you notice?
Burnout caused by informal care can have physical, mental and emotional effects.
You may, for example, notice that:
- you often feel tired;
- you have little time to recover;
- you get angry or sad more quickly;
- you have trouble sleeping;
- you are worrying about the care situation;
- you feel you have no space for yourself;
- you experience symptoms such as headaches or muscle pain;
- you find it less enjoyable;
- you feel alone in the healthcare system.
Sometimes you may find yourself being curt with the person you are caring for. This can make you feel guilty, although it is often a sign that the strain is too great.
