Caregiver syndrome, also known as burnout or caregiver stress, is a common phenomenon among those who take care of a loved one. It is characterized by a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion due to not having enough time for themselves.
The presence of this phenomenon has been so relevant that in 2019 the WHO classified burnt out caregiver syndrome as an occupational disease.
Despite this, many caregivers are family members who voluntarily assist their parents or grandparents. Therefore, we explain how to detect the symptoms of caregiver burnout, and what you can do to reinforce your well-being, while caring for others.
Also know State aid for caregivers of dependent people.
What causes caregiver syndrome?
There are different roles to organize as a family, to take care of elderly people at home.
On the one hand, the main caregiver stands out, the one who accompanies the dependent person in their daily life.
On the other hand, we find the remote caregiver, a figure who invests a smaller amount of his time for this purpose, despite assuming certain responsibility,
We talk about caregiver syndrome, especially in people who assume the first situation, although it can occur in both cases.
One of the diseases commonly related to burnout caregiver syndrome is Alzheimer's.
According to the Pascual Maragall Foundation, One of the diseases commonly related to burnout caregiver syndrome is Alzheimer's., given the number of hours that family members need to invest in the patient.
Roger Guasch, CEO of IMA Health, also witnesses the dedication that a family member with this condition requires.
"Since my mother Inma was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, I dedicated my time and my professional career to improving her quality of life. My priority was to ensure that she did not forget any feedings."
Roger Guasch, CEO of IMA.
Neurodegenerative diseases are not the only cause of burnout caregiver syndrome. Assisting a dependent person, and not having the support of a professional caregiver, or not opting for a nursing home, can put a lot of pressure on family members.
What are the symptoms of caregiver burnout?
Symptoms of burnout caregiver syndrome can vary, but typically include physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. In addition, it also affects their behavior and environment, generating social isolation, loss of interest in their hobbies and irritability.
You may also experience changes in sleep patterns, and a lack of appetite or concentration.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of caregiver syndrome, and take measures to prevent its onset. We explain how in the next point.
How to combat burnout caregiver syndrome?
The job of a caregiver is to help a dependent person at all times, but... Who takes care of a caregiver?
To better understand this situation, we rely again on the words of the WHO: "Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being."
As Ismael Saquete, Psychologist at the Victoria Eugenia Cruz Roja Hospital, explains, beyond their obligations, there are also a series of basic rights so that a family member does not fall into burnout caregiver syndrome.
Respecting them and being aware of their limits will promote a more balanced lifestyle.
1. Right to personal care
When we care for someone else, we prioritize their well-being, relegating our own needs to the background. In this way, it is very easy to fall into caregiver syndrome without realizing it.
Your physical and emotional needs are important too. Listen to your body, and know what you are capable of encompassing. Discovering in which situations to have external support will strengthen your health and help you regain strength.
2. Occasional independence
It is essential that you have a personal space, where you can enjoy your time, and dedicate it to what you like most. Connecting with other people or resuming hobbies will help you avoid burnt out caregiver syndrome, and approach your care tasks from another perspective.
3. Accept our emotions
Taking care of a family member and returning all the love and affection they have given us is a comforting task. However, the tasks can become overwhelming, leading to caregiver burnout syndrome.
In these cases it is always advisable to speak with a psychologist to guide us through the process, and not feel guilty for experiencing these emotions.
4. Ask for external help to avoid burnout
Trying to cover all the needs that a dependent person has is very difficult. On many occasions, we need to complement our work with health or assistance services.
To help us with medication, for example, some pharmacies provide SPD services, that is, they organize daily intakes for you. This way, you can have the medical plan already prepared, and cross this task off the list.
Request your organization service:
As a social impact company, at IMA Health we work with pharmacies throughout Spain to be able to offer a service.
It is never too late to adopt these habits, and they can help us both prevent and counteract burnt out caregiver syndrome.
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