Caregiving is without a doubt one of the most selfless and difficult jobs one can do. To take upon the responsibility, caring for an elderly or disabled person requires a lot of patience and empathy. Depending on the kind of caregiver you are, you may not have fixed hours, no breaks and no holidays.
But even caregivers get burned-out. There’s no way someone can work tirelessly without having some time off every now and then. Everyone needs to be taken of – even caregivers.
When caregivers constantly neglect their own needs, they are at risk of developing a destructive traumatic disorder called Compassion Fatigue.
What is Compassion Fatigue?
In the simplest of terms, compassion fatigue is the emotional distress anguish and distress caused by the constant requirements of caring for another individual.
Caregivers usually develop compassion fatigue when they’re constantly neglecting their own needs and attending to the needs of others. After some point, numbness takes over them; they develop apathy and may even engage in destructive activities.
Once compassion fatigue is recognized, caregivers need to immediately make changes to their lifestyle and take necessary steps to transform their lives for the better.
They need to return to a point in their lives where they once again have control over their lives. All caregivers need to understand that providing proper care for others cannot happen if you don’t care yourself.
Symptoms Include:
- Bottling up of emotions
- Constant blaming of others
- Substance abuse
- Lack of self-care & Hygiene
- Compulsive behaviors
- Apathy and indifference to activities and those around them
The Road To A Healthier, Happier You
When you’ve accepted that you may be suffering from compassion fatigue, it’s time to start addressing some of the issues you’re struggling with. Consider getting caregiver counseling to gain an insight into past trauma, loss, pain and emotional triggers. Counseling sessions will even arm with the essential coping mechanisms that will reduce daily stress and teach you how to take time out for yourself.
Caregivers are inclined to get overwhelmed by the demands of their jobs which takes a toll on them emotionally – and physically too if they don’t look after themselves.
The Global Caregiver offers caregiver counseling services for caregivers across the world. We hold domestic and international seminars where our experts she the tried and tested, Beverly Method of caregiving.
Call (510) 866-3729 or (510) 250-7636 to find out more about the resources we offer and our services.