Learn more about CFSS in Minnesota
In-home caregiving can be a taxing job physically, mentally, and emotionally. It can become even more difficult when the recipient of your care is a friend or relative.
It’s easy to forget that the people who give care need to take care of themselves too. Caregiver burnout is real, and it’s not an ideal situation for either the client or the care provider. As a caregiver, avoid overextending yourself by utilizing these strategies and resources.
It’s entirely normal for family caregivers to experience many difficult emotions. Guilt, resentment, anxiety, burnout, grief, and disillusionment are very common among those caring for loved ones. It is important to acknowledge these feelings and not attempt to hide from them.
Difficult emotions for caregivers include:
Guilt: You may feel guilty that you aren’t doing enough as a caregiver to provide for your patient.
Grief: Providing care often comes with a number of losses. The loss of time otherwise spent, a future you had envisioned, and the loss that comes with caring for a terminally ill loved one.
Burnout: The exhaustion and stress that comes from being pulled in too many different directions. Very common among caregivers who also work and provide for their family.
Resentment: You may be angry with other family members or friends for not doing more to support you or the person you care for.
While it’s important for personal care assistants (PCAs) to acknowledge these feelings, it’s even more essential that you not keep them inside. Talking about your feelings and sharing experiences is the best way to handle these types of emotions.
Where to find emotional support for family caregivers:
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is not always the easiest thing to do. Caregivers often forget about themselves when consumed with the responsibility of tending to another. Staying physically and mentally healthy is essential to providing adequate home health care and enjoying an emotionally sound life.
Ways for caregivers to stay emotionally healthy:
If the individual you're caring for is able, feel free to include the person in any or all of these activities. These are great ways to stay active and healthy together while providing care.
All too often, caregivers feel they must go it alone. Don’t believe this. There are many resources available to assist family caregivers from becoming burnt-out from the stress of looking after another human. The first step is to understand what caregiver burnout is and admit when you need a mental health break.
Signs of caregiver burnout:
Support for caregiver burnout:
Caring for others is one of the most selfless and fulfilling roles, but it can also be incredibly demanding. At Best Care, we understand that to truly provide the best care for others, caregivers must prioritize their own well-being. That’s why we’ve created comprehensive wellness resources designed to help you recharge, find balance, and maintain your health—physically, mentally, and emotionally. You’ve likely heard the phrase, “You can’t fill from an empty cup.” It’s a powerful reminder that your health and happiness matter. To show up as your best self for those you care for, you need to care for yourself first. By dedicating even a few moments daily to simple wellness practices, you can reduce stress, boost energy, and navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience.
1. Breathing: Refresh Your Mind and Body
Your breath is one of the simplest yet most powerful tools for self-care. Deep, mindful breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system, helping your body and mind transition from a state of stress to calm.
Why It Helps: Mindful breathing increases oxygen flow, lowers cortisol levels, and enhances focus. It also helps stabilize your heart rate, making it a quick and effective way to manage stress.
Try This:
Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 seconds.
Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for 4 seconds.
Repeat this cycle 5-10 times, focusing on the sensation of your breath.
Pro Tip: Practice this technique during moments of overwhelm, before starting your day, or even during caregiving tasks.
2. Silence: Find Moments of Calm
Amid the hustle and bustle of caregiving, silence can serve as a sanctuary. Taking a few minutes to pause and embrace stillness can help you reconnect
with yourself and regain clarity.
Why It Helps: Silence promotes mindfulness, reduces mental clutter, and provides an opportunity to reset. It’s not just about being quiet; it’s about creating intentional space for yourself.
Try This:
Set aside 3-5 minutes to sit quietly in a comfortable position.
Close your eyes and focus on the rhythm of your breath or the sounds around you.
Alternatively, practice silent reflection or prayer to find inner peace.
Pro Tip: Pair your quiet time with calming sounds or a guided meditation app for added relaxation.
3. Movement: Stay Strong and Energized
Physical activity doesn’t have to mean vigorous exercise. Gentle, intentional movement like stretching, yoga, or even a brisk walk can help release built-up tension and rejuvenate your body.
Why It Helps: Movement improves circulation, releases endorphins (your body’s natural mood elevators), and helps ease physical and mental stress.
Try This:
Stretch your arms overhead and hold for a few seconds.
Roll your shoulders forward and backward to relieve tension.
Take a 5-minute walk outdoors or around your home.
Pro Tip: Incorporate small movements throughout your day, especially during caregiving tasks, to stay active without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Nutrition: Fuel Your Body for the Day Ahead
What you eat has a direct impact on how you feel. Consuming whole, nutrient-rich foods provides your body with the energy and nutrients it needs to keep up with the physical and emotional demands of caregiving.
Why It Helps: Proper nutrition strengthens your immune system, supports
mental clarity, and ensures sustained energy throughout the day.
Try This:
Add colorful fruits and vegetables to every meal.
Keep healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, or fresh fruit readily available.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Pro Tip: Plan and prepare meals in advance to avoid reaching for processed or unhealthy options when you’re short on time.
5. Community: You’re Not Alone
Caregiving can sometimes feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Building a strong support system of friends, family, or fellow caregivers can
provide encouragement, understanding, and practical advice.
Why It Helps: Connection reduces feelings of loneliness, relieves stress, and fosters emotional resilience. Sharing experiences with others can help you feel supported and understood.
Try This:
Call or text a friend to catch up and share your thoughts.
Join a local or online caregiver support group to connect with others who understand your journey.
Schedule a coffee date or meal with someone who uplifts and energizes you.
Pro Tip: Make time to connect regularly, even if it’s just a 5-minute check-in call or message.
Caring for yourself is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. By incorporating these small yet impactful wellness practices into your daily routine, you can create a foundation for long-term balance and health. Start small: pick one pillar to focus on today, and build
from there.
Remember, even a few moments focused on wellness can make a world of difference. You deserve to feel strong, supported, and ready to take on the day.
