Out of love, out of obligation, maybe out of a sense of just doing what’s right, you are one of more than 65 million adults in North America taking care of an elderly, chronically ill or disabled loved one. In fact, 50% of Canadians have nursed a loved one for more than four years. Family caregivers average 20 hours of unpaid in-home care per week and 87 percent of them are not getting enough sleep.

You may be coping with other responsibilities such as work, children, and finances and may put yourself last on the list of things to take care of. Often caregivers hide their difficulties and pretend that they can deal with everything. Not taking care of yourself can have a negative effect on your health resulting in sleep problems, depression, and anxiety.

If this sounds familiar then you are on the road to caregiver burnout.

It is important to remember to take the time to look after yourself as well as your loved one. Be honest with yourself about what you can do. Think about what is most important, and put aside what is not.