As loved ones age and need extra help with daily activities, the responsibility of caregiving often falls to a family member. While caring for someone you love can be rewarding, it also brings many challenges. Balancing work, raising children, managing a household, and maintaining your own health can feel overwhelming. Not everything can get done and that’s okay.
The Toll of Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout is real and affects your physical, mental, and financial well-being. More than half of caregivers report that caregiving makes it difficult to care for their own mental health. Among those who work, 67% say they struggle to balance their job with caregiving duties.
With constant demands, nearly 4 in 10 caregivers say they never get a chance to relax. Over time, this unrelenting pressure can seriously harm your health.
Signs to Watch For
When your attention is constantly on caring for someone else, it’s easy to put your own needs last. Over time, this can lead to caregiver burnout, which affects not only you but also your ability to provide care for others.
Common signs of burnout include:
- Trouble sleeping or feeling exhausted even after rest
- Skipping meals or relying on quick, unhealthy options
- Feeling like you’re always “on” with little time to relax
- Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or managing daily tasks
Remember, your health matters just as much as the person you’re caring for. Prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. By taking time to rest, recharge, and seek support, you’ll be better equipped to care for your loved one while maintaining your own wellbeing.
Simple Ways to Relieve Stress
Here are a few things you can do to help protect your well-being:
✅ Take a break. Even a few minutes of quiet time can help you recharge. Step outside, listen to music, or do something you enjoy.
✅ Ask for help. Lean on a support group, counselor, or healthcare professional. Sharing the load makes a difference. Remember: You don’t have to do this alone.
✅ Eat well. Try to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated, even on busy days. Small, healthy choices add up.
How Sun Health At Home Can Help
With a Sun Health At Home membership, you gain access to a dedicated Wellness Coordinator, available 24/7. Your coordinator can help organize care, handle paperwork, coordinate services, and lighten the load of your caregiving responsibilities.
Since 40% of caregivers say they often feel alone, our program ensures you have reliable support whenever you need it.
Membership also includes an in-home functional and safety assessment to recommend supportive technology, helping you or your loved one live independently and confidently at home.
To learn more about how Sun Health At Home can support you and your family, visit SunHealthAtHome.org.
You deserve care and support, too. Let us help you take the next step toward a healthier balance.
