CAREGIVER BURNOUT
"You went above and beyond my expectations and I just want to let you know that I really appreciate that. I feel a lot more comfortable knowing that my grandmother is going to be well taken care of. I feel a huge sense of "relief" and just want to thank you again for listening and taking care of our concerns." Grand-daughter in Houston
Why do I feel so overwhelmed when I know that others have a far more difficult time than I do? I feel like a Yo-Yo.
Why do I feel so overwhelmed with care giving when I know that others have a far more difficult time than I do?
I know that is the case - I read lots of posts here on Agingcare and don't know how some of you do what you do. I know that stress is perceived. How do I perceive it differently? My family says to 'just let it go' - 'don't pay any attention to what she says' - 'you can't do anything about it' - 'stop worrying about it.' Why can't I?
I have changed from a very caring, happy person into someone who is uptight, stressed out and feels like crying a lot. Some days I manage OK and some days I don't. Is it ME or is it just that my hubby and kids don't understand what I deal with? If I were to explain my day - MOST would think I have it pretty good. Why does it FEEL like PRISON?
I do the care-giving. I don't feel that I get much understanding from my family. I know my husband 'cares' but I am not so sure he 'understands.' My mother-in-law gets visits and caring phones calls - no one ever asks how I am.I just feel that it is easy for others to say 'let it go' - because they CAN.
Of course, they can also LEAVE. They have jobs and lives. I am even looking forward to a REAL break in a few weeks. Friends and our kids are going to look after grandma while we go away for a while. The visiting nurse says 'go for it.' 'Don't worry' I spent 3 weeks enlisting help for twice a day visits and 5 evenings of meals and company for her. I should be thrilled to be able to leave. What's wrong? Am I dreading coming home before I even leave?
Source: AgingCare.com
