Taking care of a parent with dementia can be hard. Initially, it can be minor things such as assisting them in taking meals or feeding them, and remembering to take medicine.
However, very soon it may seem like too much. The majority of the caregivers are tired, depressed, or stressed out. This is known as caregiver burnout.
Many caregivers face similar dementia challenges. Learning to cope helps you care for them and yourself.
At Daybreak Telepsych, we know caregivers have special challenges. We offer support, advice, and mental health guidance.
What Is Caregiver Burnout?
Burnout happens when you focus on others and forget yourself. It makes you feel
- Very tired
- Sad or upset easily
- Angry at small things
- Guilty for feeling upset
- Sick or weak
Burnout may be damaging to both body and mind. It may also complicate the process of caring for your parent. This is why it should be mentioned in time and measures taken to feel better.
Signs You Might Be Burned Out
Everyone gets tired sometimes. Burnout is more serious. You might notice:
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling lonely
- Getting sick a lot
- Feeling sad or worried
- Not enjoying things you liked before
Noticing these signs early is essential. Daybreak Telepsych can help you recognize burnout and make a plan to manage stress before it gets too big.
Why Caregiving for a Parent with Dementia Is Especially Stressful
Dementia can change your parent’s memory and behavior. They can lose your identity, repeat themselves, their inquiries, or be petulant.
Routine activities such as eating, bathing, or taking medicine could require you to assist them constantly. This would make the process of caregiving very exhausting.
You can’t care for others if you’re not caring for yourself.
Daybreak Telepsych helps caregivers with practical tips to reduce stress and feel better emotionally through therapy, counseling, and Geriatric Psychiatry Services that address the mental health needs of both aging parents and their caregivers.
How to Cope with Caregiver Burnout
- Ask for Help
It is not necessary to do everything yourself. Friends, neighbours, or family can help with trivial chores. Even a few minutes will make you feel better.
Daybreak Telepsych provides mental health services to the caregivers. A professional can help you to be less stressed, anxious or depressed.
- Take Care of Your Health
Caring for someone else can make you forget about yourself. Try to:
- Eat healthy meals
- Drink enough water
- Sleep when you can
- Move your body with short walks or stretches
Even minor things will make you feel more powerful. Daybreak Telepsych also assists the caregivers in taking care of their health.
- Use Stress-Relief Techniques
Stress can build up fast. You can try:
- Deep breathing
- Gentle stretching or yoga
- Listening to calm music
- Writing your feelings in a notebook
These minor things will help you be less stressed. Daybreak Telepsych can provide additional tips that may apply to your case.
- Connect with Support Groups
Talking to other caregivers can be a good idea. Support groups enable you to share feelings, seek clarification, and train.
Daybreak Telepsych can guide you to support groups that match your needs.
- Seek Professional Support
Sometimes, burnout cannot be handled alone. Daybreak Telepsych offers services for both caregivers and older adults. Our team can:
- Help with caregiver stress
- Provide counseling for anxiety or sadness
- Support your parents’ mental health
These services are available in Washington, California, and Idaho. We also provide medication checks, second opinions, and urgent medication refills for extra help.
Why Self-Care Matters
Your parent needs you to be strong and healthy. By caring for yourself, you can care for them more.
Requesting assistance does not amount to failure. It is because you are making a good decision for both you and the parent.
Daybreak Telepsych can guide you on this journey with care and support.
Simple Daily Tips to Stay Balanced
- Take a few minutes each day to rest or relax
- Keep a routine for you and your parent
- Notice small positive moments, like a smile or a task done
- Talk about your feelings and accept them
Daybreak Telepsych highlights the importance of small, daily steps to help reduce stress and make caregivers feel better.
Final Thought
Caring for a parent with dementia is hard, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Self-care is highly significant. Little things such as requesting assistance, taking breaks, and supporting go a long way.
Daybreak Telepsych supports caregivers and their parents. We offer mental health support. Reaching out shows strength and helps you care for your parent.
Contact us for caregiver stress and psychological help.
FAQs
Q: Is it normal to feel guilty for taking a break?
Yes. Self-care is essential and can help you provide quality care. Professionals at Daybreak Telepsych can help you manage these feelings.
Q: Does caregiver burnout result in depression?
Emotional strain and fatigue can trigger a depressive state without enduring support and guidance.
