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Carer Burnout for Carers of People with Disability – Tips and Resources to Support You
If you are primary carer for a person with disability, it can be incredibly rewarding ― and equally as exhausting. Care is often provided over years, even decades, and in many cases alongside other roles and responsibilities. When burnout and accompanying feelings of stress and helplessness take over, both you and the person you are caring for end up suffering.
It’s not easy finding time and energy to take care of yourself, but in the wise words of Health and Lifestyle Speaker, Eleanor Brown, “You cannot serve from an empty vessel”.
So, let’s understand some of the signs and events building up to carer burnout and what resources and initiatives are available to support you.
Please also be aware that the below is general information and may not apply to your specific personal circumstances, if you’re having a difficult time, please seek assistance and advice from a health professional.
What causes carer burnout?
As a carer, you may be so focused on caring for others it’s easy to neglect your own emotional and physical health. The demands on your body, mind and emotions can be taxing, leaving you feeling depleted and, in many cases, burnt out.
In today’s fast-paced environment, it’s worth knowing that burn out is a common issue in many people’s lives and that you are not alone. As primary carer for a person with disability, the odds of burnout increase because of the extra pressures placed upon you. Some of the common causes of carer burnout include:
Adapting to change
Many carers are thrust into the role and it’s a huge adjustment. If they fail to get the support they need to manage the added responsibility, it can quickly become overwhelming.
Chronic stress
Providing for a loved one can be a demanding responsibility that requires time, energy and attention. On top of this, carers are often juggling multiple roles in addition to caring, such as work and parenting. Over time, this overload can deplete energy and lead to burnout.
Unreasonable demands
Sometimes, family members or the person being cared for can disregard their own responsibilities and place unreasonable demands on the carer.
Unreasonable expectations
Most carers want the best for the person they care for and to have a positive impact on their health and happiness. This isn’t always possible, especially when caring for people with severe mental illness or degenerative conditions.
Lack of support
Caregiving can be lonely and isolating at times, especially if the caregiver doesn’t have a strong support network.
Lack of control
Many carers don’t have the time, money, resources and skills to effectively plan, manage and organise a loved one’s care.
Emotional strain
Witnessing the struggles, pain and suffering of someone with chronic illness or severe disability can be distressing and emotionally taxing.
What are the warning signs for carer burnout?
Because everyone’s situation is unique, symptoms of carer burnout will present differently to each person. It’s important to recognise symptoms early, so you can seek the support you need and when in doubt, please seek assistance and advice from a health professional.
Some warning signs to watch out for, include:
- Irritability and moodiness
- Physical and emotional exhaustion ― even after getting enough sleep and rest
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Withdrawal from social events
- Lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Physical symptoms, such as headaches, muscle tension and stomach issues
- Changes in appetite and weight loss
- Increased use of drugs and alcohol
How can you avoid getting carer burnout?
Sometimes, it can take just a few small changes to your regular routine to feel happier, healthier and more energised. Identifying what works for you will depend on your individual carer responsibilities, schedule and personal needs.
Here are a few ideas which might work for you:
- Take regular breaks, even short ones, throughout the day to switch off and recharge;
- Prioritise activities most important to you and the person you’re caring for;
- Set realistic expectations. In many cases quality trumps quantity – you can’t be everything to everyone, so be clear about your role and the care you are able to provide;
- Seek help from family, friends, or professional caregivers to share the responsibility and lighten the load;
- Take care of your own physical and emotional health by getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and doing things you enjoy;
- Join support groups and forums to connect with others in similar situations or seek counselling to get professional support when needed;
- Manage stress with techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga – if you don’t have time for a scheduled class, there are lots of resources online which might be more practical;
- Attend social events and stay connected with friends and family to avoid isolation and loneliness;
- Join NDIS carers online forums to help solve daily challenges and surround yourself with others who have tackled similar situations.
Does the NDIS provide support for carers?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) recognises the role you play as carer and has rolled out a number of initiatives that NDIS participant’s can access to help make both your lives easier. To access NDIS supports, the person you’re caring for must be an NDIS participant.
- Respite care to provide a much-needed break from your caregiving duties, so you can take some time for yourself.
- Therapeutic supports to help you manage your own health and wellbeing, such as counselling, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy.
- Support coordination can help you find, access and manage the services and supports in your loved one’s life. Find out more here.
- Assistive technology such as mobility aids, communication devices, and home modifications to make caregiving easier.
- Meal planning and preparation to save you the time and effort, while ensuring the person you care for eats a healthy and varied diet.
- Training and education to help you build skills and knowledge to provide better care.
- Specialist disability accommodation for participants with high support needs to help ease your load as carer.
- Behaviour support plans and interventions to help you manage challenging behaviour and improve the quality of life for the person you’re caring for.
For free carer support, visit National Carers Week | 13 – 19 October 2024 for resources and support. And remember, we’re with you every step of the way. Contact our team using our Live Chat function, email [email protected] or call 1800 549 670.