Being there for someone you love is one of the most generous things you can do, but even the most devoted carer can feel stretched thin. Recognising carer burnout is the first step toward restoring balance. If you’ve been juggling personal life alongside caregiving, you may have wondered:
“Is this too much?”
“Is it normal to feel this way?”
The answer is: yes, your feelings are completely valid – and no, you are not alone.
Many carers experience emotional highs and lows, and it’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed. According to WebMD, between 40–70% of caregivers experience symptoms of depression. A recent Carers UK study found that nearly 80% of carers report stress or anxiety, with around half experiencing loneliness or low mood.
You deserve support too — and there are resources, services, and self-care strategies that can help.
Am I a Carer?
You may not even call yourself a carer — many people don’t. But if you’re:
- Providing physical support
- Offering emotional comfort
- Helping someone manage an illness, disability or medical condition
- Coordinating appointments or medications
- Simply being there for someone who relies on you
…then yes, you are a carer.
Whether you’re supporting a parent, partner, friend, or neighbour – your role matters. And caring for someone else means you also need care yourself.
What Is Carer Burnout?
Carer burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that occurs when the demands of caregiving become overwhelming or relentless.
It doesn’t mean you’re not doing a good job. It means you’ve been doing too much, for too long, often without enough rest, help, or support.
Why Carer Burnout Happens
Burnout can creep in slowly — especially when:
- You don’t take regular breaks
- You feel isolated or unsupported
- You’re managing care alongside work or parenting
- You struggle to find time for your own needs
The good news? With the right strategies and support, you can feel more balanced and energised again.
Common Symptoms of Caregiver Burnout
Everyone experiences burnout differently. Some signs might surprise you:
Emotional signs:
- Irritability or mood swings
- Feeling helpless, hopeless, or anxious
- Low mood or sadness
- Loss of enjoyment in usual activities
- Guilt, resentment, or feeling trapped
Physical signs:
- Chronic fatigue or exhaustion
- Sleep problems (too much or too little)
- Weakened immune system (getting sick more often)
- Appetite or weight changes
Behavioural signs:
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Struggling to focus or stay motivated
- Decline in work performance
- Avoiding caregiving duties
If you’re experiencing more than a couple of these symptoms, it might be time to take a step back and explore ways to support your own wellbeing.
Self-Care Strategies for Carers
If you’re one of the many dedicated carers across Dorset and the UK, here are some self-care tips to help you feel more supported, balanced, and like yourself again.
Mental & Emotional Wellness
- Practice mindfulness or meditation for 5–10 mins a day
- Keep a journal to release thoughts and emotions
- Speak to a therapist or counsellor
- Join a caregiver support group (in-person or online)
- Set boundaries and learn to say “no”
- Use positive affirmations or gratitude lists
Physical Health
- Get gentle exercise (walking, stretching, yoga)
- Prioritise sleep (aim for 7–9 hours)
- Eat nourishing meals and stay hydrated
- Take short breaks, even if just 5 minutes
- Don’t miss your own health appointments
Relaxation & Enjoyment
- Schedule regular “me time” (reading, music, hobbies)
- Go outdoors — nature helps regulate mood
- Watch a feel-good movie guilt-free
- Try a creative outlet like painting or gardening
- Plan an occasional mini getaway
Social Connection
- Stay in touch with friends outside of caregiving
- Ask for and accept help
- Explore respite care (more below)
- Keep connected via texts, calls, or video chats
Everyday Habits
- Build a simple daily routine that includes time for yourself
- Use checklists or planners to reduce mental load
- Delegate where possible
- Do one task at a time to avoid overwhelm
- Celebrate small wins daily — they matter
Could You Be Experiencing Burnout? [Mini Checklist]
Tick any that apply:
☐ I feel constantly tired, even after resting
☐ I’ve lost interest in things I used to enjoy
☐ I’m often irritable or emotionally drained
☐ I find it hard to focus or stay motivated
☐ I feel guilty for needing time for myself
If you ticked two or more, it might be time to take a break — and that’s OK.
What Is Respite Care?
Respite care offers temporary support for your loved one — giving you time to rest, recharge, or simply take care of yourself.
It could be:
- A few hours of care during the day
- An overnight stay
- A short-term visit lasting a few days
Your loved one receives high-quality care, companionship, and engagement — and you get the chance to reset.
Respite Care with Friary Care
At Friary Care, we provide flexible, personalised respite care to support you and your loved one.
During their stay, your loved one will enjoy:
- Individualised care and attention
- Social activities and meaningful outings
- Nutritious meals and comfortable surroundings
- Kind, attentive staff who treat them like family
You can relax knowing they’re in safe hands — while you take time to care for yourself.
Get in touch to learn more about our respite care options.
Or call us directly to discuss how we can support your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes carer burnout?
Burnout often results from prolonged emotional and physical stress — especially when you don’t get enough rest, support, or time for yourself.
How do I know if I need respite care?
If you’re feeling consistently overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally drained, respite care can offer essential relief — for your sake and your loved one’s.
What support services are available in Dorset?
As well as Friary Care, you can explore support through Carers UK, Carer Support Dorset, and local NHS social care teams.
I feel guilty for taking a break — is that normal?
Yes, and it’s common. But taking a break isn’t selfish — it’s smart, sustainable caregiving. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
How do I get started with respite care?
Contact us at Friary Care for an informal chat. We’ll walk you through options, answer questions, and tailor support around your needs.
Take Care of You, Too
Caring for a loved one is a powerful act of love — but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your own wellbeing. With the right support and self-care, you can continue to care with energy, resilience, and joy.
Contact Friary Care today to explore how we can help.
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