Avoiding Fibromyalgia Caregiver Burnout

Caring for someone with fibromyalgia can be physically and emotionally challenging. On top of day-to-day struggles, the lack of understanding and knowledge most people have about fibromyalgia makes it all harder.

It’s important, for both you and the loved one you’re caring for, to avoid caregiver burnout. In addition to the tips listed below for preventing burnout, remember that feelings of frustration, loss, anger, resentment and, as a result, guilt, are all normal emotional responses and do not make you less of a caregiver or a bad person.

It’s important to communicate these feelings and struggles to someone who will understand, as stifling them will take a toll on your mental health and your ability to provide good care. Consider talking to a therapist, a fellow fibromyalgia caregiver, or even the person on the end of the phone at a support organization.

And always remember that your best is all you can do. Your loved one appreciates your support, probably more than you know.

See the infographic below to learn more about caregiving and avoiding burnout.