Recognizing The 3 Stages of Caregiver Burnout

Share this content

What Is Caregiver Burnout?

If you’re a family caregiver for a loved one, you’ve likely become accustomed to spending most of your time giving to others while putting yourself at the bottom of the priority list. And, it would be hard not to. Family caregivers spend an average of 24.4 hours per week providing care, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP.

Although caregiving can be an incredibly rewarding experience, if the stress of caregiving is left unchecked, it can have an impact on the family caregiver’s health, relationships, and state of mind — eventually leading to caregiver burnout. Nearly three-quarters of family caregivers report not going to the doctor as often as they should, and 55 percent say they skip doctor appointments for themselves. Yet 40 to 70 percent of family caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression with approximately one-quarter to half of these caregivers meeting the diagnostic criteria for major depression. Understanding the stages of caregiver burnout is important to guard against it and take steps to seek help when you are moving toward burnout. It could be time to consider assisted living options near you to provide the best quality of care for both your loved one and yourself.

Caregiver burnout is a process that usually progresses through stages, giving you the opportunity to recognize symptoms and take the necessary steps to prevent it. Here’s a look at the signs and symptoms of the 3 stages of caregiver burnout.

What Are The 3 Signs of Caregiver Burnout?

Stage One: Caregiver Stress

Stress arousal is the first sign that you’re not getting the physical and emotional support you need. Maybe you’re frustrated or disappointed over your loved one’s deteriorating condition or lack of progress. It can be hard to accept that the quality of your care and effort has nothing to do with the actual health-related decline or mood of the care recipient. This frustration can lead to caregiver stress.

Watch for these signs of caregiver stress:

  • Becoming easily irritated or angry
  • Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried
  • Experiencing periods of high blood pressure
  • Grinding your teeth at night
  • Having difficulty sleeping
  • Being forgetful
  • Feeling heart palpitations or unusual heart rhythms (skipped beats)
  • Having trouble concentrating
  • Having frequent headaches, bodily pain, or other physical problems

If you’re facing any one of these signs of caregiver stress it could be time to reach out for help. A caregiver can end up so overwhelmed by taking care of someone else that they neglect their own physical, mental, and emotional well-being, it won’t be long before you’re experiencing caregiver burnout.

Stage Two: Caregiver Burnout

When you have passed from caregiver stress and have moved into a sense of caregiver fatigue you are likely in a state of burnout or getting close to it. Caregiver burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by the prolonged and overwhelming stress of caregiving.

You might be struggling to maintain a sense of purpose in working so hard to provide care, which leads to feelings of loneliness and being unappreciated, second-guessed, or criticized by other family members and the care recipient.

And you’re probably reluctant, unable, or unwilling to reach out for help from others when you are dealing with caregiver burnout. Isolation and energy conservation are hallmarks of caregiver burnout and can negatively impact your relationships with others.  When you’re burned out, it’s tough to do anything, let alone look after someone else.

Watch for these signs of caregiver burnout:

  • Being late for work
  • Procrastinating
  • Having trouble relaxing, even when help is available
  • Experiencing a decreased sexual desire
  • Having much less energy than you once had
  • Neglecting responsibilities
  • Withdrawing socially from friends and/or family
  • Thinking cynically
  • Feeling increasingly resentful
  • Drinking more coffee, tea, and soda
  • Drinking, smoking, or eating more
  • Experiencing apathy

Any two of these signs of caregiver burnout may signal you’ve moved from stage one, caregiver stress, into stage two, full burnout.

Stage Three: Compassion Fatigue

Compassion fatigue is an extreme state of tension and preoccupation with the suffering of those being helped to the degree that it can create secondary traumatic stress for the helper, according to the Compassion Fatigue Awareness Project. Which means that, unlike caregiver burnout, compassion fatigue results from exposure to another person’s traumatic experience(s) and creates high levels of emotional stress and despair.

Compassion fatigue is most commonly seen among health care professionals, such as nurses, counselors, correctional workers, and child protection workers, but family caregivers are susceptible, too, because they often don’t have access to preventive measures, such as mental health days, peer support, and professional counseling, that many employers offer.

Another difference between caregiver fatigue or burnout and compassion fatigue is that the final stage of burnout often causes caregivers to experience a weakened sense of empathy for those in their care. Someone might experience a decrease in patience and tolerance or have angry outbursts that are uncharacteristic of their behavior. That’s why it’s important to recognize the red flags that point to the onset of compassion fatigue.

Watch for these signs of compassion fatigue:

  • Feeling hopelessness and meaninglessness
  • Having chronic stomach or bowel problems
  • Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and drained
  • Having chronic headaches
  • Desiring to “drop out” of society
  • Avoiding and not wanting to be around friends, work, and perhaps even family
  • Thinking of suicide as a means of escape

Again, any two of these symptoms may signal you’re in stage three of the caregiver burnout cycle. The exhaustion stage is where most people finally get a sense that something may be wrong.

Arbors & Ivy 3 stages of caregiver burnout assisted living community help

Questions To Ask Yourself To Determine If You Are Suffering Caregiver Burnout

  1. Are you feeling irritable or hopeless?
  2. Are you struggling with emotional and physical exhaustion?
  3. Do you find yourself getting sick more often?
  4. Do you have heightened anxiety?
  5. Do you have trouble making care decisions?

If you answered yes to any of the above your loved one’s need for care is wearing you out. It may be time to start considering your assisted living options. Download our eBook for six other warning signs that it’s time to make the move to assisted living.

Although caring for a loved one will never be stress-free, you can rein in the stress of caregiving and regain a sense of balance, joy, and hope in your life.

If your loved one’s need for care is wearing you out, it may be time to start considering your assisted living options. Download our eBook for the warning signs that it’s time to make the move to assisted living.

If you are looking for assisted living options throughout Massachusetts and into Connecticut we invite you to check out The Arbors & The Ivy. Our assisted living communities provide compassionate care and amenities to make your loved one feel as comfortable as possible. Contact us to book a tour today.

 

What our Happy Residents and Their Families Have to Say on Google:

We moved my Mom in last week to the Memory Unit and the staff could not have been nicer. It was a bit overwhelming as due to Covid, only one person is allowed to unpack. The staff and Program Director, Chris Kept coming by to make sure I was OK and that I didn’t need anything. They helped with getting rid of boxes and finding a cart for me to bring things to my car etc. What really impressed me though was several times when I walked out I saw the staff sitting and holding hands with the residents. When you have a parent that is impaired it is so comforting to know that they’re going to be loved and taken care of and that was evident. Also, Jonathan the regional executive director was wonderful and supportive with any concerns that I had.
Deedee N.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Did You Enjoy The Article? Get More Like This.

Receive relevant information, touching resident stories and helpful tips directly to your email inbox. All you need to do is subscribe to our VIP newsletter "Family Ties". It's FREE and you can unsubscribe anytime.

eNewsletter graphic
  • Browse by Topics

  • Recent Posts

  • Have More Questions?

    Deciding to help a loved one transition to a senior living option is not an easy decision. We can help you get the clarity, answers, and support needed to lessen your worries and take the next steps.

    Click the button below to let us know how we can help you further.


  • NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Our eBrochure

    Simply enter your details below to get access.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Our eBrochure

    Simply enter your details below to get access.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.


    Note: Your Privacy is very important to us and your details are kept confidential.
    You can easily unsubscribe at any time.

    Instant Access to the Program Overview Brochure

    Get more details about our signature Memory Care program to determine how well it will fit your loved one’s situation. Simply fill out the fields below to get access to the PDF.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Have you decided that assisted living is the best option for your elderly parent, and now are feeling overwhelmed on how to begin your search for the right community?

    This guide will go over what you need to know before you make a decision.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Are you considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one but are hesitant about the cost? Assisted living costs, services and amenities vary greatly among the last and most expensive communities, and costs are higher in some states than others.

    This guide will answer questions you may have about the costs of assisted living and recommend resources to help you pay for it.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Talking to your aging parent about moving to an assisted living community isn’t easy.

    Often, many adult children avoid bringing it up because it can be a sensitive topic.

    This guide will provide you with helpful tips and insight on how to have a productive conversation with your parent and siblings regarding your parent’s future.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Difficult behaviors in elderly adults are very common. They may be an expression of frustration your loved one feels or a symptom of early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

    This guide will provide you with skills and knowledge on how to handle difficult behaviors your aging parent may be experiencing.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Becoming a family caregiver can be a rewarding experience. It also has its challenges.

    There are many questions to answer before making the decision to take care of a loved one.

    This guide will provide answers to questions you may have on this topic.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Is your parent or loved one depressed, or just in a bad mood?

    What does medication and illness have to do with depression?

    How can you help? In this guide, you will be provided with answers to the difficult questions you may have about depression.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Has your aging parent recently lost interest in activities they used to enjoy? Have you noticed a change in their mood and behavior?

    This guide will provide you with resources and tools on how to identify depression, what are the common causes of depression, and how to promote mental health in your aging loved one.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Does your loved one need more support than what they are getting? Would they benefit from some assistance with daily activities?

    In this guide, you’ll find answers to the most common questions asked about assisted living.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Where do you start searching for assisted living or memory care communities?

    What qualities in a community should you look for? How do you know you made the right decision?


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Has your dad stopped getting together for lunches or outings with friends or visits with neighbors? Have you stopped enjoying time with your parents because you’re a caregiver?

    Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. Learn how to find the right one for you and your loved one.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    No one ever plans to be sick or disabled, and disasters, man-made or natural, can happen at any time, anywhere.

    Yet older adults are among the most vulnerable during a crisis. That’s why it’s critical that seniors, and those who care for them, prepare for emergencies.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Moving to assisted living is a life-changing event.

    This guide provides tips and ideas on downsizing, what to pack and how to make the transition smooth for your senior parent.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    In this eBook, you’ll learn how to talk with family and friends about caregiving challenges, how to deal with a parent who is resistant to help, how to get more caregiving help from your siblings, and how to keep your job while caregiving.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Have you had to cut back your hours at work to care for your mom? Are you worried about administering medications or injections?

    Have you stopped getting together with friends, either because you don’t have the time or you’re too exhausted? Are you becoming the invisible second patient?


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    A Guide to the Most Common Family Caregiver Challenges Associated with Caring for an Aging Parent.

    You’ll learn about the true costs of being a family caregiver, common family conflicts that can occur when caring for parents, and some of the unexpected challenges of caregiving.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, including the early symptoms of dementia; the seven stages of dementia and the symptoms that typically accompany each one; and the signs it’s time to start exploring your memory care options.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between assisted living and memory care, how health care professionals are trained in dementia care, common features of a memory care community, and questions you should ask when exploring your memory care options.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Navigating adult sibling relationships can be a challenge, but coming together for the sake of your parent is important.

    In this guide, you’ll learn about common sibling conflicts that arise when caring for parents, strategies for getting siblings on board, and where to turn to for help.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    Assisted living can be a touchy subject. No matter how you approach it, your parent is likely to have objections to something.

    As you help them transition to a new stage of life, it helps to be prepared with answers to their questions and concerns.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    This checklist will help to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit to The Arbors.

    The list details what important questions to ask during your visit so you are able to make an enlightened choice and find the best assisted living community for your needs.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide


    If you’re unsure what Assisted Living looks like in real life, whether there is a difference with nursing homes or a desire to see how community life unfolds, then this guide is exactly what you need.

    A guide to discover the Care Team and a Typical Day in Assisted Living.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-How to Choose the Right Assisted Living Community: What You Need to Know Before You Begin Your Search
    Have you decided that assisted living is the best option for your elderly parent, and now are feeling overwhelmed on how to begin your search for the right community?

    This guide will go over what you need to know before you make a decision.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Assisted Living Costs and Affordability
    Are you considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one but are hesitant about the cost? Assisted living costs, services and amenities vary greatly among the last and most expensive communities, and costs are higher in some states than others.

    This guide will answer questions you may have about the costs of assisted living and recommend resources to help you pay for it.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Having “The Talk” With Your Parent: It’s Time for Assisted Living
    Talking to your aging parent about moving to an assisted living community isn’t easy.

    Often, many adult children avoid bringing it up because it can be a sensitive topic.

    This guide will provide you with helpful tips and insight on how to have a productive conversation with your parent and siblings regarding your parent’s future.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-The Challenges of Aging: How to Handle Your Aging Parent’s Difficult Behaviors
    Difficult behaviors in elderly adults are very common. They may be an expression of frustration your loved one feels or a symptom of early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

    This guide will provide you with skills and knowledge on how to handle difficult behaviors your aging parent may be experiencing.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Becoming a Family Caregiver: What You Need to Know Before Deciding to Take Care of a Loved One
    Becoming a family caregiver can be a rewarding experience. It also has its challenges.

    There are many questions to answer before making the decision to take care of a loved one.

    This guide will provide answers to questions you may have on this topic.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Helping Your Parent Manage Depression
    Is your parent or loved one depressed, or just in a bad mood?

    What does medication and illness have to do with depression?

    How can you help? In this guide, you will be provided with answers to the difficult questions you may have about depression.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Is It Depression? A Guide to Identifying and Addressing Depression in Aging Adults
    Has your aging parent recently lost interest in activities they used to enjoy? Have you noticed a change in their mood and behavior?

    This guide will provide you with resources and tools on how to identify depression, what are the common causes of depression, and how to promote mental health in your aging loved one.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Assisted Living Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
    Does your loved one need more support than what they are getting? Would they benefit from some assistance with daily activities?

    In this guide, you’ll find answers to the most common questions asked about assisted living.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Why We Chose the Arbors Assisted Living and Memory Care: A Collection of Stories from Residents Living at The Arbors
    Where do you start searching for assisted living or memory care communities?

    What qualities in a community should you look for? How do you know you made the right decision?


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-7 Warning Signs It’s Time to Make the Move to Assisted Living
    Has your dad stopped getting together for lunches or outings with friends or visits with neighbors? Have you stopped enjoying time with your parents because you’re a caregiver?

    Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. Learn how to find the right one for you and your loved one.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-Getting Your Affairs in Order
    No one ever plans to be sick or disabled, and disasters, man-made or natural, can happen at any time, anywhere.

    Yet older adults are among the most vulnerable during a crisis. That’s why it’s critical that seniors, and those who care for them, prepare for emergencies.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-Guide to Making the Move to Assisted Living
    Moving to assisted living is a life-changing event.

    This guide provides tips and ideas on downsizing, what to pack and how to make the transition smooth for your senior parent.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-Solutions to Common Caregiving Challenges
    In this eBook, you’ll learn how to talk with family and friends about caregiving challenges, how to deal with a parent who is resistant to help, how to get more caregiving help from your siblings, and how to keep your job while caregiving.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    How Moving My Loved One to The Arbors Eliminated My Caregiving Challenges
    Have you had to cut back your hours at work to care for your mom? Are you worried about administering medications or injections?

    Have you stopped getting together with friends, either because you don’t have the time or you’re too exhausted? Are you becoming the invisible second patient?


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-When is the Right Time for Memory Care?
    In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, including the early symptoms of dementia; the seven stages of dementia and the symptoms that typically accompany each one; and the signs it’s time to start exploring your memory care options.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-What to Look for in a Memory Care Community
    In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between assisted living and memory care, how healthcare professionals are trained in dementia care, common features of a memory care community, and questions you should ask when exploring your memory care options.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-Brothers and Sisters
    Navigating adult sibling relationships can be a challenge, but coming together for the sake of your parent is important.

    In this guide, you’ll learn about common sibling conflicts that arise when caring for parents, strategies for getting siblings on board, and where to turn to for help.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-The Standoff
    Assisted living can be a touchy subject. No matter how you approach it, your parent is likely to have objections to something.

    As you help them transition to a new stage of life, it helps to be prepared with answers to their questions and concerns.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-11 Most Common Caregiving Challenges
    A Guide to the Most Common Family Caregiver Challenges Associated with Caring for an Aging Parent.

    You’ll learn about the true costs of being a family caregiver, common family conflicts that can occur when caring for parents, and some of the unexpected challenges of caregiving.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-Checklist_ Questions to Ask When Touring an Assisted Living Community
    This checklist will help to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit to The Arbors.

    The list details what important questions to ask during your visit so you are able to make an enlightened choice and find the best assisted living community for your needs.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Guide

    Guide-What is Assisted Living Really Like
    If you’re unsure what Assisted Living looks like in real life, whether there is a difference with nursing homes or a desire to see how community life unfolds, then this guide is exactly what you need.

    A guide to discover the Care Team and a Typical Day in Assisted Living.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

    Instant Access to Free Cost Comparison guide

    You’re probably wondering how much the different senior living options compare to your current situation.
    If you do, then this guide is exactly what you need.


    NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.