Unique Challenges for Caregivers During the Holiday Season

The holidays can be a particularly difficult time to take care of one’s self, as we often prioritize traveling to and caring for loved ones. Because caregivers are often more attuned to the needs of others than they are to their own, it can be especially difficult to identify symptoms of burnout when they occur around the holiday season. To this end, AARP recommends awareness of extreme emotional ups and downs, as these can indicate exhaustion and overstimulation.  

Another key indicator of caregiver burnout—which can be especially prevalent during the holidays—is experiencing an overall feeling of numbness or apathy towards people and activities in your life, particularly towards those that typically bring you joy. This level of apathy can translate into other areas of your life, often affecting sleeping and eating habits. For example, according to the Journal of Gerontological Nursing, caregivers of family members with dementia have difficulty falling asleep and lower sleep quality than others. 

Other symptoms of caregiver burnout include foggy thinking, an inability to sit still, the feeling of being lethargic and unable to get anything done, or the strong desire to abandon all responsibilities. To better care for yourself and others, it’s important to see if you are experiencing any of these symptoms during the holidays—even if this means taking a few quiet moments to yourself during the buzz of the season.

Taking preventative measures against caregiver burnout can make day-to-day caregiving healthier for everyone. 

Many caregivers hold themselves to a high standard every day, and this is often intensified during the holiday season. Reducing feelings of shame associated with not performing “well” as a caregiver can provide a much-needed buffer against the stress of the holiday season. United healthcare recommends letting go of caregiver guilt by setting realistic expectations, which might mean that you bring the holidays to your loved one rather than attempting long travel with someone who may be dealing with dementia or issues with mobility.  

While everyone’s heard the saying “you can’t pour from an empty cup,” this mantra is more relevant than ever during the holiday season. Seek support groups or talk to your doctor if you are feeling depressed or anxious. When we’re busy it’s easy to let self-care slip just as we need it most. 

Additionally, practice saying “no” to added responsibility. Many caregivers find it difficult to turn down opportunities to assist others, but there come times when adding more tasks to your to-do list will hurt more than it will help. The Cleveland Clinic offers tips and tricks on politely declining new responsibilities while prioritizing your own mental health. These include setting boundaries, offering alternatives, and facing confrontation.

In some cases, caregiver burnout may be unavoidable. Once you’ve determined that you or a loved one is suffering from burnout, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. However, the best way to move forward is to take a break. 

Harvard Medical School suggests respite care as a way to provide caregivers with much-needed rest when facing burnout. Respite care involves allowing another caregiver to step in. It can last for a few hours or several months. Respite care might come from a family member or friend who volunteers their help. Or it can come from professional services such as in-home-aid, short-term stays in a skilled nursing or memory care facility, or private, at-home nursing care. 

Whatever you decide, always understand your options when it comes to caregiving, and never be afraid to ask for help. Caregiving is an extremely rewarding job, but one that comes with a high risk of burnout. Research your options for respite care or ask a trusted friend or relative to help you make a respite care plan for your loved one if you are experiencing severe burnout during the holidays.

Finally, during the holidays, do yourself and your loved ones the favor of monitoring day-to-day symptoms of burnout, and taking the necessary steps to care for yourself when you need it most. This will help you and your family enjoy a safe holiday season, however you choose to celebrate.