As a caregiver, you may be so focused on your loved one that you don’t realize that your own health and well-being are suffering. Watch for these signs of caregiver stress: Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried. Feeling tired most of the time. Sleeping too much or too little. Gaining or losing a lot of weight. Becoming easily irritated or angry. Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy. Feeling sad. Having frequent headaches, bodily pain or other physical problems. Abusing alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications.
Too much stress, especially over a long time, can harm your health. As a caregiver, you’re more likely to experience symptoms of depression or anxiety. In addition, you may not get enough sleep or physical activity, or eat a balanced diet — which increases your risk of medical problems, such as heart disease and diabetes.