I'm burned out caring for my parent. What can I do?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to take care of your mom every day after her stroke, but you're exhausted, snapping at everyone, and you can't remember the last time you slept well.

Caregiver burnout is real.

Causes & evidence

Caregiving stress can affect health; support helps. See caregiver stress.

What to do

1. Ask family to share tasks.
2. Find respite care through Eldercare Locator.
3. Take care of your own health.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: believing you have to do it all alone, or waiting until you're at a breaking point. Caregiver burnout is real and common. Make a list of tasks others could help with, even small ones like grocery runs, and share it with family and friends. Use the Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov) to find local services like meal delivery, adult day programs and respite care. Ask about caregiver support groups. Keep up your own doctor visits. If you work, look at FMLA leave or flexible schedules. Talk to a doctor or counselor if you feel hopeless; in the U.S., you can call or text 988 any time if you're in crisis.

Speed Man tip: Join a caregiver support group.

Wrap-up: Share. Respite. Self-care.