Regardless of how much you love your loved one, being a family caregiver is without a doubt, a job that requires no shortage of both physical and emotional energy. And yet, so many family caregivers feel a keen sense of guilt or worry that they are being selfish if they dare to take time off. The result? You run the risk of experiencing burnout and providing your loved one with a compromised quality of care.
If this situation resonates with you or sounds familiar, perhaps respite care in Romford and Clacton on Sea and surrounding areas can help. Read on to discover the importance of looking after your wellbeing so that you can provide your loved one with the best care possible.
The importance of caring for yourself
We understand the pressures of caring for your loved one. However, your health and wellbeing matter too. The truth is that looking after someone else, no matter how much you love them, can be demanding, exhausting, and downright difficult. Not to mention, you have your own life, commitments and responsibilities on top of caring for them too. It’s no wonder that feelings of burnout, frustration and perhaps even resentment may kick in if you don’t do something about it. At the end of the day, you are human and you deserve to look after yourself as well.
Signs of caregiver burnout
Caregiver burnout can appear gradually so it’s important to look out for the signs so that you can nip it in the bud as soon as possible. If you allow it to grow, burnout can have a significant effect on your physical health, mental wellbeing and even your relationships.
Some signs of caregiver burnout to be aware of, include:
- trouble sleeping
- feeling run down or like you’re constantly lacking energy
- difficulty concentrating
- overreacting to minor inconveniences
- increased anxiety, irritability and depression
- increased physical health problems
- cutting back on leisure activities
- drinking or eating more.
What is respite care?
Respite care is temporary care provided to relieve family carers of their caregiving duties so that they can rest, relax and recharge their batteries. It ensures your loved one still gets the care they need to live well – even when you can’t be there. Our friendly carers do everything possible to make sure your loved one receives the care, attention and support they need to feel safe and comfortable at home.
How can respite care help?
The purpose of respite care is to share the burden of care so that your loved one continues to receive the high-quality care they deserve. As the primary caregiver, you get to enjoy some much-needed time off without having to worry about your loved one’s safety and wellbeing during your absence. When you return, you’ll feel refreshed, re-energised and ready to provide your loved one with the top-notch care they deserve. Both of you will have benefited from the change in routine – just think of all the stories you will have to share!
Get in touch
If you are a family caregiver in need of a break, know that we are here for you. Please feel free to get in touch with one of our friendly staff members who would be happy to answer any of your questions or provide more information. You can get in touch with us here or give us a call on 0800 999 3447.