Caring for a loved one can be deeply rewarding. It can also be exhausting. Caregiver burnout is common, and recognizing it early is the first step toward getting the support you need to keep going.
Quick takeaways
- Caregiver burnout is physical, emotional and mental exhaustion from the ongoing demands of caring for someone.
- Warning signs include constant tiredness, irritability, poor sleep, withdrawing from friends and neglecting your own health.
- Asking for help, taking regular breaks and joining a support group can make a real difference.
- Baltimore-area caregivers can find support through local aging offices and Maryland Access Point.
What is caregiver burnout?
Caregiver burnout is physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that builds up over time. It often happens when caregivers try to do everything themselves, put their own needs last or care for someone whose needs keep growing, such as a person living with dementia.
Signs of caregiver burnout
- Feeling tired all the time, even after rest
- Trouble sleeping, or sleeping too much
- Feeling irritable, anxious, hopeless or sad
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
- Pulling away from friends and family
- Getting sick more often
- Skipping your own doctor visits, meals or exercise
- Feeling resentful, then guilty about it
If you see yourself in this list, you are not alone, and it is not a sign of failure. It is a sign that you need more support.
You cannot pour from an empty cup. Caring for yourself is part of caring for them.
Ways to cope and recharge
Ask for, and accept, help
Make a list of specific tasks others can do, like picking up groceries, sitting with your loved one for an afternoon or handling a phone call. People often want to help but do not know how.
Take regular breaks
Even short breaks help. Respite care, adult day programs and help from family can give you time to rest and recharge.
Look after your own health
Keep your own medical appointments, eat regular meals, move your body and protect your sleep when you can.
Connect with others
Caregiver support groups, in person or online, offer understanding and practical tips from people who know what you are going through.
Learn what to expect
Understanding a loved one’s condition can make hard moments feel more manageable. For example, our guide to sundowning explains why evenings can be difficult for people with dementia.
Support for Baltimore-area caregivers
- Maryland Access Point connects families with caregiver support, respite and long-term care resources.
- The Baltimore City Health Department’s Division of Aging and Care Services offers caregiver support and other programs for city residents.
- The Baltimore County Department of Aging runs a Caregivers Program with resources and support for county residents.
Our guide to Baltimore senior and caregiver resources has more details.
When needs grow
Sometimes a loved one’s needs become more than one person can safely manage at home. Exploring other options is not giving up. It is making sure everyone gets the care they need. Our overview of senior care options can help you weigh next steps.
Frequently asked questions
What is caregiver burnout?
Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that can happen when caring for a loved one over a long period, especially without enough support or rest.
What are the signs of caregiver burnout?
Common signs include feeling tired all the time, trouble sleeping, irritability, anxiety or sadness, losing interest in activities, getting sick more often, withdrawing from friends and neglecting your own health.
How can I avoid caregiver burnout?
Accept help from others, take regular breaks, keep up with your own health appointments, stay connected with friends, join a support group and use respite care when you need it.
Where can caregivers in Baltimore find support?
Maryland Access Point, the Baltimore City Health Department’s Division of Aging and Care Services and the Baltimore County Department of Aging’s Caregivers Program can connect you with support groups, respite and other services.
When is it time to consider more care for a loved one?
If caregiving is affecting your health, or your loved one’s needs have become hard to meet safely at home, it may be time to explore more support, such as in-home help, adult day programs or a care community.
This article is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Coverage rules can change, so confirm details with Medicare, your plan or your care team.
