Caregiver Burnout

Prolonged stress from caregiving can show up in a variety of ways: as headaches, body aches, insomnia, moodiness. It can lead to a lack of interest in activities you previously enjoyed, and create feelings of loneliness and isolation. About 63 million Americans are currently serving as family caregivers, which equates to about 1 in 4 American adults. At an average age of 51, they’re juggling a lot — especially if they're caring for both children and adults, and balancing all of that with work. It’s a recipe for burnout, putting caregivers at risk for mental and emotional stress, health issues, and financial burdens. But knowing how to navigate this phase can make all the difference.   Guest: Amy Brennan, executive director of the Illinois Family Caregiver Coalition Related Reading: Signs of Caregiver Burnout New Caregiver Helpline Once Upon a Caregiver The Caregiver's Journey