Caregiver Welfare: How to Not Fall for the Martyr Syndrome

Caregiver Welfare: How to Not Fall for the Martyr Syndrome

Caregivers are the few people in this world who are selfless, committed, and determined. There are many things caregivers do that others could not, making caregivers deserve your gratitude. They sacrifice not just time and effort but their whole heart. In other words, not everybody is cut out to be a caregiver. Sometimes, caregivers can experience grave consequences because of having this selflessness—martyr syndrome is one of them.

More often than not caregivers provide care alone.  Stress and burnout are the most common problem they suffer.  Lone caregivers do not have to become matyrs and victims of the martyr syndrome.  Sole caregivers often have their own emotional, physical, psychological, spiritual, social and financial issues to contend with in their lives.  Let’s look at ways to avoid all of these issues:

Research the Symptoms

Physical problems are often the first symptom that would occur to the caregiver. Mostly, they said that headaches, stomach problems, muscle tension, and excessive fatigue are some of the first struggles. The caregiver will not have a proper sleep rhythm or would even experience insomnia. They would not have the energy to do things for themselves, like exercise or eat healthily. They would focus intently on the medical problems of the older loved one and making everything about them, making them negligent of their own wellbeing.

Find Balance

Having a healthy mindset is that you can work more effectively compare you having a bombarded mind. Setting boundaries is not always possible or easy but attempting to set aside some time for yourself is essential.  This might be as little as a few moments of meditation or a 30-minute power nap.  This time for finding balance between caregiving and stress will avoid becoming drained and exhausted. 

Share Your Feelings

Share your feelings with those closest to you.  Not everyone realizes or understands the stress of being a sole caregiver.  Caregivers need support from others to process emotions.  The world will not feel as though it is closing in on you when you share your emotions, feelings, fears, and cares.  This is not to say you will need professional help, it is a way to mitigate the risks of burnout and stress.

Understand Your Own Feeling

Question your feelings and get in touch with your emotions.  To not be in touch with your feelings will affect how you are providing care.  You do not want to get so caught up with your own emotions that you will not provide the best care to your loved one.  You need to be at the top of your game to be the best caregiver possible.  Take the time to reflect on your feelings.

Being a sole caregiver is hard work.  It is essential to take care of yourself in order to take care of a loved one.  Don’t lose sight of your wellbeing.  Don’t get the martyr syndrome.