Caring for a loved one is one of the most meaningful things you can do—but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Caregiver burnout is real, and taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for others.
Here are some simple ways to support your own well-being while caregiving:
- Set boundaries: It’s okay to create limits around your time and energy. You don’t have to do everything on your own, and it’s okay to say no when something feels like too much.
- Take breaks: Even short moments of rest can make a difference. Step outside for fresh air, take a few deep breaths, or give yourself time to reset during the day.
- Stay connected: Make time for relationships outside of caregiving. Talking with friends, family, or others who understand your experience can help you feel supported and less alone.
- Practice self-reflection: Check in with yourself regularly. How are you feeling—physically and emotionally? Writing in a journal can be a helpful way to process your thoughts.
- Make time for what you enjoy: Whether it’s reading, exercising, crafting, or spending time outdoors, prioritizing activities you love can help restore your energy.
- Acknowledge what you’re doing: Caregiving can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly impactful. Take a moment to recognize the difference you’re making in your loved one’s life.
- Seek support when you need it: You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out to family, friends, or caregiver support groups when you need help or someone to talk to.
How Papa can help ease your caregiving load
You don't have to carry every caregiving responsibility yourself. Papa connects your loved one with friendly, background-checked Papa Pals who can step in to provide extra support at home, including:
- Companionship & Connection: Engaging in conversation, playing games, or sharing hobbies to keep your loved one socially active.
- Help Around the House: Assisting with light housekeeping, meal prep, organization, and grocery shopping.
- Transportation & Outings: Driving your loved one to medical appointments, community centers, or local errands so you don't have to take time off work.
- Respite Care for You: Giving you dedicated hours back in your day to rest, handle your own needs, or simply take a well-deserved break knowing your family member is in good hands.
Ready to get extra support for you and your family? Click here to get started.
Additional Support for Caregivers
Archangels
We’ve partnered with Archangels, an organization dedicated to supporting caregivers, to help connect you with helpful tools and resources.
Archangels is a social impact organization dedicated to recognizing caregivers and connecting them with meaningful support. Through a quick, three-minute assessment, you can receive an “Intensity Score” that helps you better understand your caregiving load and access personalized insights. Based on your results, Archangels can also connect you to local resources and services tailored to your unique needs as a caregiver. Take the assessment and get your score today.
Immediate Support & Crisis Lines
Taking care of someone else starts with taking care of yourself. You’re showing up every day for your loved one—and you deserve support, too.
The above information is not meant to replace professional mental health services. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available.
If you need immediate support, these hotlines are available:
- Mental Health America: Text “MHA” to 741741
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): 800-950-NAMI
- National Hopeline Network: 800-442-4673
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
- Postpartum Support International: 800-985-5990
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 800-985-5990
- Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255
- Youth support resources: https://theyouthalliance.com/resources/help-hotlines/
You’re not alone—and support is always within reach.