Our hints and tips on how to avoid burnout as a live-in carer, or in fact any other profession!
What Is Burnout?
Burnout is a state of mental and physical exhaustion that can take the joy out of your career and family life. Continual exposure to stressful situations, like caring for an ill family member or client, working long hours, or witnessing upsetting news can lead to this stress condition. But burnout can be easily avoided by looking after your body and mind, so you can carry on with your duties at work and at home, always giving it 120%!
Tips To Avoid Burnout
Remember to take regular breaks - not just throughout the day, but also longer breaks in-between bookings. If you have been working for 3 months, it may be good to take a few weeks off to recharge your batteries, enjoy fun activities, or take a trip away to experience new things.
Exercise - you can even do this with your client! Exercise is a great way to boost endorphins which make you happy, and keep your immune system high. Depending on your client's abilities, why not try and work exercise in to your daily routine? You can try tings like light yoga, walking outside, or chair based exercises if your clients mobility allows them.
Get enough sleep - this is very important to keep energised for the day. We know it's not always possible to sleep through the night if your client needs to wake up and be assisted, however this is why it's important to take breaks to allow your body to rest; and also ask for help if you need it. It is not uncommon for there to be two domiciliary carers: one live-in carer works day shifts, and one takes over the night time assistance.
Talk to us - we're here to help you! If you feel like you're getting tired or overwhelmed with any tasks or duties, remember the team at Access Care are here for you. We will listen to you, and help you make a plan, or talk to clients about organising for a secondhome carer or a carer to cover your break.
We want to take this opportunity to thank all our living in carers for always doing such a wonderful job and making such a big difference in our clients lives - we love reading positive feedback on how much you care for your clients! If you need us, our friendly team is here to help on: 01264 319399.