Caregiving 101: support someone without burning out
Topic: Caregiving
Reading time: 2 min
Caregiving can be meaningful—and exhausting. Burnout isn’t a character flaw. It’s often the predictable result of doing too much alone for too long.
Start with clarity
- What help is needed (meds, meals, transportation, safety, finances)?
- What can you realistically do?
- Who else can share the load?
Build a “care team”
- Family/friends (specific tasks, specific days)
- Clinicians and social workers
- Community resources (senior centers, meal programs)
- Paid help if possible (even a few hours/week can help)
Caregiver rule: If you burn out, the whole system breaks. Rest is part of the care plan.
Signs you may need more support
- Irritability, sleep trouble, frequent illness
- Feeling resentful or numb
- Neglecting your own appointments and movement
Practical next steps
- Ask the clinician’s office about caregiver resources.
- Join a caregiver support group (in-person or online).
- Set up a shared calendar and medication list.
Ask your clinician (starter questions)
- “What’s the most likely explanation in my case?”
- “What serious causes are we ruling out?”
- “Could any medications or supplements contribute?”
- “What’s the simplest next step?”
- “What should make me call you sooner or seek urgent care?”
If you want to prepare for a visit, try the Doctor Visit Checklist. For general support, browse Topics.