If you are a loved one’s care taker you probably know all the details about the health of the person for whom you’re caring. You’re on top of what medications must be taken and when, and you can probably even spot minor changes in her mood and attitude. Are you just as aware about what is going on with you?

Studies have shown that the answer is likely no. When you’re caring for a loved one, it’s easy to forget about your own needs, putting you at serious risk of burnout. Caretaker burnout is a serious and common side effect of the stress that comes with caring for a loved one. How can you tell you are burned out?

1. Mood Swings, and symptoms of anxiety or depression, being on crisis mode 24/7 can leave anyone feeling stressed and hopeless.
2. A weakened immune system, you are getting sick more often.
3. You can’t remember the last time you met up with a friend. Being worried about a loved one all the time makes you forget that you have needs as well.

If one or more of these applies to you could be a burnt out care taker. If you are you should consider these tips to help make your caretaker job less stressful.

• Get some exercise, force yourself to get moving. Exercise is the best stress reliever. Not only will you feel better right away, the surge of endorphins that exercise triggers lifts your mood, clears your head and helps you sleep better at night. A brisk 30-minute walk or jog on the treadmill, even a 10-minute walk around the block, jump-starts your brain, soothes nerves and powers up your immune system.
• Go out and meet a friend for a social visit. Having your own time to relax and have fun can really boost morale and recharge your batteries.
• See a doctor regularly to keep yourself well.
• Ask family for help in the caretaker role or consider hiring professionals to help as a caretaker to help lighten the load and give some time to take care of you.