How can I tell if caregiving is putting too much stress on me?
Caregiving may be putting too much stress on you if you have any of the following symptoms: • feeling overwhelmed • sleeping too much or too little • gaining or losing a lot of weight • feeling tired most of the time • loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy • becoming easily irritated or angered • feeling constantly worried • often feeling sad • frequent headaches, bodily pain, or other physical problems • abuse of alcohol or drugs, including prescription drugs Talk to a counselor, psychologist, or other mental health professional right away if your stress leads you to physically or emotionally harm the person you are caring for.
If you have any of the following symptoms, caregiving may be putting too much strain on you: • Sleeping problems — sleeping too much or too little • Change in eating habits — resulting in weight gain or loss • Feeling tired or without energy most of the time • Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy such as going out with friends, walking, or reading • Easily irritated, angered, or saddened • Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or other physical problems top of page
