Self-care tips
Find out about 'burnout' and what activities you can do as a carer to look after yourself and improve your wellbeing.
Carers spend a lot of time caring for others, but often don’t do enough to look after themselves. That can lead to the emotional, mental and physical exhaustion described as ‘burnout’.
It’s important for you to maintain or improve your health and wellbeing in times of stress. This is self-care and can be effective in preventing or lessening the effects of burnout.
What is ‘burnout’?
Burnout is usually caused by stress that lasts for long periods of time. It can creep up on you over time. It saps your energy, takes away your motivation and can make you feel hopeless, cynical, resentful and as though you have nothing more to give.
Signs of burnout vary from person to person. It’s important for you to recognise the early warning signs of burnout and take steps to get balance back in your life.
Signs of burnout
Signs of burnout include:
- feeling drained and tired most of the time
- getting sick a lot
- not sleeping well
- forgetfulness
- self-doubt
- social withdrawal
- decreased satisfaction
- increased irritability
- using food, drugs or alcohol to cope.
Self-care
The following activities are ways you can practice self-care:
- eat healthy food, exercise regularly and get enough sleep
- slow down and take time out to do things you enjoy
- start or end the day with a relaxing ritual such as doing stretches, meditating, taking a bath or reading
- set boundaries and learn to say ‘no’ when too many demands are made on your time
- take pleasure in the small successes you have with the child or young person in your care, from an unexpected smile to a real ‘thank you’
- connect with other carers to share stories about the challenges and joys of caring
- ask for help and support from friends, family, other carers or your caseworker when you need it
- talk about respite, home help and other options for support with your caseworker
- plan ahead for holidays so you and the kids can get a break together or apart.
Supporting yourself, your family and children in your care
If you’re worried about how you or your own children are coping, talk to your caseworker. Together, you can identify strategies for managing worries, areas of conflict, or any extra support you may need.