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Caring for others begins with caring for yourself

Burnout… How Can We Keep Going?

Caring for Others Begins with Caring for Yourself

This article is shared by Dr. Kengpong Tangarunsanti from Chersery Home International who wishes to remind caregivers to pause, care for themselves with kindness, and recognize the meaning in what they do, because caring for others with joy begins with caring for one’s own heart.

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5 Principles for Caregivers to Take Care of Themselves

By Dr. Kengpong Tangarunsanti | Chersery Home International

Caring for the elderly requires both physical and emotional strength. Many caregivers forget to look after themselves. Here are five key principles to help maintain balance, prevent burnout, and preserve compassion.

1. Always Put on Your Own Oxygen Mask First

Just like on a plane, you must care for yourself before helping others.

Get enough rest: A National Sleep Foundation study found that sleeping less than 6 hours per night increases depression and weakens immunity in caregivers.
Get enough rest: A National Sleep Foundation study found that sleeping less than 6 hours per night increases depression and weakens immunity in caregivers.

2. Create “Mental Space”

Caregivers facing constant stress are at risk of emotional fatigue. Creating mental space helps restore calm and reduce tension.

Mindfulness Meditation: A JAMA Internal Medicine (2014) study showed that 8 weeks of mindfulness training reduces stress and depression in caregivers.
Gentle activities: Gardening, listening to music, or a 15-minute walk can refresh the mind and spirit.

3. Asking for Help Is Not Weakness, It’s Survival

Those who try to do everything alone burn out faster than those with support networks.

Support networks: The Alzheimer’s Association found that caregivers with support groups are 40% more resilient against burnout.

Respite care: Short-term substitute care allows caregivers to rest and recharge.

4. Move Regularly, Even a Little

Movement helps both body and mind.

Harvard Health reports that caregivers who do 30 minutes of aerobic activity at least three times per week have better mental health.
Simple actions: a short walk, light yoga, or gentle stretching every hour.

5. Refill Your Heart with Meaning and Acceptance

What truly drains caregivers is not exhaustion, but losing sight of purpose.

Meaning Therapy and Positive Psychology research by Viktor Frankl shows that finding value in what you do strengthens emotional endurance.

Try journaling daily: “Today I helped someone feel safe” or “Something good I learned from them.”

“You are not alone in your exhaustion. Your dedication is not just care, it’s the preservation of human dignity.”
Dr. Gengpong Tangaroonsanti