Caregivers do you consider yourself pretty rational most of the time? Maybe once in a while you lose it and become what some may call an “emotional tornado”?
Yale University completed a recent study on caregivers and burnout. When caregivers are overwhelmed by a task and believe it is beyond their capability, even if it is not, he/she will perceive it as something to be feared. Fear then signals the brain pathways that weaken the prefrontal cortex, (the most evolved part of our brain) and strengthen the most primitive parts of our brain. This helps when we encounter bears but not when caring for loved ones.
When experiencing “psychosocial stress” (i.e., caregiving), an imbalance with adverse life situations and the ability to cope occurs. Brain imaging shows weakened connectivity in the prefrontal network which leads to reduced function and impaired attention. Neither of which are helpful when dealing with loved ones. Other symptoms include losing things and reacting quickly with harsh words that we regret later. With further breakdown, rest is needed in order to focus at all.
A study from Cornell found after a month of reduced stress, a person can recover. However, the cycle can threaten long term mental health if it continues. Often Caregivers aren’t often able to take a month off.
That being said, what can you do now to keep your prefrontal cortex running well?
- Get help!
- Ask family/friends/neighbors/church to pitch in a few hours a week
- Hire an agency to come in a few hours a day
- Schedule nap time
- Consult a coach who works with caregivers (https://www.lisamadsencoaching.com)
- Maintain a balanced diet, get regular sleep, try deep breathing and stay hydrated
- Enjoy Nature in any form, yoga, socializing and walks
Caregivers use this information from neuroscience to remember you are not “weak”, it is how your brain is wired. You need to do things that help you feel in control. Simple, not easy. Please reach out for help.
