By Marta Street, Certified Concierge Care Advisor
Caregiver Burnout is Real: How to Practice Self-Care Before It’s Too Late
Many of my clients come to me overwhelmed, tired, and dangerously close to burnout. One of the first questions I always ask is: “What are you doing for yourself?” The answer is almost always the same: “I don’t have time.”
This response is all too familiar, not just for caregivers but for anyone juggling responsibilities. But the truth is, if you don’t take care of yourself first, you won’t have the capacity to care for anyone else.
The Importance of Putting Yourself First
Two key examples illustrate this well. When you fly, what’s one of the first things the flight crew says? “Put on your oxygen mask before helping others.” Similarly, during my EMT training, I learned a valuable lesson: never put yourself in a position where you become another person in need of rescue.
Caregiving can take a toll on you physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is essential to recognize that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Regular breaks and moments of rest are essential for sustainable caregiving.
Simple Ways to Refill Your Cup
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming—it can start small. My daughter, a licensed mental health counselor, always reminds me to practice what I preach. She shared a handout with over 100 ideas for self-care, and I realized that filling your cup can take many forms. The key is to find what works for you.
Maybe self-care is about connecting socially, doing something creative, or taking a walk in nature. It could involve pampering yourself, tackling a task that’s been weighing you down, or simply sitting quietly and breathing. Sometimes it’s as simple as journaling, laughing, or even letting yourself have a good cry. For me, painting mandalas or binge-watching Netflix helps me unwind and recharge.
The holidays are just around the corner, adding extra stress to caregivers’ already full plates. That’s why it’s crucial to start small. Just five minutes a day, one day a week, can make a difference. Gradually, you’ll get more comfortable prioritizing your own well-being.
You Deserve to Take Care of Yourself
Caregivers give so much of themselves, but they must remember: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself first ensures you’ll be there, fully present, to care for your loved one. You work hard—and you deserve to feel good.
At Concierge Care Advisors, we know caregiving can feel overwhelming. Let our care advisory services in Washington help you find solutions, from respite care options to other personalized elder care services. Contact our expert care advisors today to learn how we can support you on this journey.
