Chronic Stress Leads to Burnout
A recent study revealed beneficial effects of bright light exposure for burnout and stress.
Studies have shown that "natural light" exposure to higher illuminance levels can result in increased feelings of alertness, better performance and reduce burnout and mental exhaustion.
unfortunely . . .
NOT ALL BRIGHT LIGHTS ARE SAFE!
What is caregiver burnout?
A caregiver with burnout has become overwhelmed and is physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausted from the stress and burden of caring for their loved one.
Almost every caregiver experiences burnout at some point. If it does happen and it’s not addressed, the caregiver eventually becomes unable to provide good care. For this reason, caregiver burnout can be harmful to the person receiving care as well as to the caregiver.
What are symptoms of caregiver burnout?
The symptoms are similar to the symptoms of stress and depression and they may include:
- Withdrawal from friends, family and other loved ones.
- Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed.
- Feeling blue, irritable, hopeless and helpless.
- Changes in appetite, weight or both.
- Changes in sleep patterns.
- Getting sick more often.
- Feelings of wanting to hurt yourself or the person for whom you are caring.
- Emotional and physical exhaustion.
- Irritability.
Emotional Exhaustion
The core symptom is emotional exhaustion, which leads to impaired functioning. Caregiving most often depletes mental resources and results in increased feelings of sleepiness, lack of energy and psychological stress.
Importantly, burnout is not a medical diagnosis or a mental health condition—instead, the World Health Organization classifies it as an “occupational phenomenon.” But studies show that it can overlap with physical and mental health issues, including depression, insomnia, gastrointestinal problems and headaches. It can even be a predictor of chronic diseases including heart disease and type 2 diabetes, research shows.
Enlightened Self Care When You Have Caregiver Burnout
Caring for a loved one can be very rewarding, it also involves many stressors. And since caregiving is often a long-term challenge, the emotional impact can snowball over time.
Beneficial effects of bright light exposure at eye level can improve alertness, vitality, objective cognitive task performance, and influence physiological arousal measured with heart rate.
Experience Enlightened Burnout Relief
