Yesterday we discussed some of the symptoms of caregiver burnout. Today, let’s look at some of the steps you can take to cope with burnout if you are indeed suffering from it. These include:
- Learning as much as you can about your family member’s illness and how to care for that illness. The more you know, the more effective you’ll be and the better you’ll feel about your efforts
- Recognize your limits, and take a more realistic approach to how much time and effort you can give. Then, be sure to express those limits to doctors and family members
- Learn to accept the way you feel. Anger, fear, resentment, guilt, helplessness, grief… all of these emotions and more are commonly felt by caregivers
- Talk to people about what you feel. Keeping your emotions bottled up doesn’t do you or the person you are caring for any good. Confiding in trusted friends and family members can prove invaluable
This last step is extremely important. Remember—you are not alone. Support is available from people who understand what you are going through and can help you cope with the stress involved. You must do whatever it takes to avoid a sense of isolation. You’ll find support groups within the community online, in the phone book, through your physician, and organizations associated with the health problem of the loved one under your care.
Our firm may also be able to help the person you are caring for obtain assistance from Medi-Cal to offset the cost of long-term care if you think a nursing home is the only realistic option. Contact us today at (626) 696-3145 for a consultation.
