Carer strain is also known as “compassion fatigue”. Carer strain can occur when you are so involved in caring for someone that you stop caring about yourself and put your needs last.
Carer strain is “a state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress”.
The signs of strain are:
- Feeling exhausted, nervous, worn out, helpless
- Getting angry or upset at little things can be an early stage of strain. Feeling depressed and experiencing mood swings can come later.
- Having problems with concentration and feeling unmotivated.
- Frequent headaches, back pain, muscle aches.
Causes of Carer Strain
- Working too much; not taking time for yourself
- Lack of recognition for the good work you do
- Lack of help, too many responsibilities, not being able to delegate or needing to be in control
- Lack of supportive relationships
- Not enough sleep
Preventing carer strain
We have looked at what can cause Carer Strain. The good news is there are things we can do to prevent Carer Strain. Some of them are listed below. You may want to make positive steps to do some of the ones you haven’t yet tried.
Carer strain and alcohol use
Many people, whether they have the stress of caring for someone or not, drink (alcohol) to cope with stress. It can feel good to “unwind” with a glass of wine or beer in the short term. However, there is research to say that carers who are depressed, anxious or lonely may be more likely to drink a bit too much, making it a bit risky. Drinking too much may cause problems for your body and your mind. It may put the person you are caring for at risk of injury, especially if you are responsible for helping them with personal care (e.g. bathing and toileting). In the long term drinking too much can cause more stress. If you are concerned about your use of alcohol it’s good to bring this up with your GP who could give you some simple strategies to help or find someone who can help.
If you want to check that your drinking is within safe limits, do the anonymous quiz her to find out .
Before reaching for a drink you may be able to substitute some of the healthier ways to deal with stress that we have discussed.
If you think you may be experiencing “carer strain” please talk to your GP or a caring professional so that you can get more support and advice.