What is Carer burn out?

When we feel very drained a lot of the time, and we reach the end of our reserves of energy. It is a state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion. Imagine an empty battery or cup still trying to pour or keep going but with no liquid or energy left.

Excessive stress over a long time can lead to feeling drained, brain fog, and feeling unable to cope.

Signs and symptoms

• Feeling depressed/numb

• Overreacting

• Poor appetite

• Smoking or drinking more

• Physical exhaustion

• Slow or confused state of mind

• Being irritable with the person we care for

• Neglecting our own needs or those of the person we care for

What can I do to help myself?

• Contact your GP for support

• Speak to friends and family, social services and Sutton Carers Centre to ask about support and how to plan a break from caring (known as respite)

• Book onto the Maintaining Wellbeing as a Carer workshop to understand more about wellbeing and how to take care of yourself.

• Consider attending a peer support group at Sutton Carers Centre. Through peer support you can - meet other carers, share what you are going through, gain tips and techniques to help you manage day to day .

Visit out wellbeing page for information and upcoming wellbeing activities and workshops.

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