Burnout is common among cancer caregivers. Often caregivers feel angry, sad, overwhelmed, depressed, guilty and/or lonely. All these feelings are normal but sometimes can be a sign of depression. Cancer caregivers must be honest with themselves about what they are capable of doing. Many try to do too much on their own with little support from others. It is important to know your limits. You are only human.
Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout can sneak up on you. Here are some symptoms to look for:
- constant exhaustion
- changes in appetite
- changes in sleep patterns
- anxiety and inability to relax
- excessive anger and irritability directed at the patient, your family or yourself
- always sick with colds, etc.
- withdrawing from family, friends and social activities.
- crying for no reason.
If any symptom is overwhelming, contact your primary care physician as you may be suffering from depression
Help for Caregiver Burnout
Nobody can do everything. Caring for a cancer patient may not have a happy outcome which adds to your stress. To provide for another person, you have to take care of yourself:
- eat well, keep your doctor appointments and exercise.
- take a break and enjoy yourself.
- ask family and friends for help.
- don’t be afraid to ask doctors and nurses for help.
- understand your patient’s disease.
- get organized. Use the Breast Cancer Advocate iPhone App to keep track of your patient’s treatments, insurance co pays, and medical information.
- join a caregiver support group
The American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute are excellent sources of information.
Caregiver Support
Local
Most hospitals have caregiver support groups. Check with the social worker or nurse navigator. The American Cancer Society may have a list for your area.
- Churches or community organizations such as the Elks, Moose, VFW, etc. may offer assistance to members.
- Ask the hospital social worker for a list of free community transportation services if your patient needs them.
- Some religious groups and non-profit organizations will provide telephone check-ins to reduce a home bound patient’s isolation. Check with your church and social worker.
Online
The Family Caregiver Alliance is an excellent website which provides state-by-state resources to locate services for family caregivers.
Cancercare offers online and telephone support groups for caregivers, 24 hours per day or call: 1-800-813-4673.
Good Reading
Cole, Roberta and Intner, Riki. Caregiving from the Heart: tales of inspiration. San Francisco: Elders Academy Press, 2006. Available on Amazon.
