Caregivers - needed now more than ever - experience physical, emotional and psychological burdens as they empathetically serve those who are sick, disabled or dying. The toll these stresses take can result in depletion and ultimately caregiver burnout. Effective self-care protocols for caregivers are essential for resilience and longevity. From our caregiver training manual, we describe the stages and warning signs from stress to burnout. We introduce the concept of "energy exchange" and its potential contribution to caregiver distress. We also talk about the importance of caregiver awareness of their physical, bodily sensations and the clues these sensations give for releasing stress and restoring well-being.

Episode 118: THE STAGES OF CAREGIVER STRESS

The Survivor’s Guide to Life is an on-going series of discussions between Dr Peter Bernstein - a coach and mentor with nearly 50 years of experience working with emotional trauma and its impacts and podcast host, Jenny Stevenson - a seasoned coach and mentor who has worked with Dr Bernstein for more than a decade. 

Each podcast will cover real-world examples of the various traumas, difficulties and struggles of life, and how developing an attitude of resilience can do more than merely help one cope - resilience can result in personal growth, an attitude of hope and ever-increasing joy in life.

Episode 118: THE STAGES OF CAREGIVER STRESS

The Survivor's Guide to Life