Carer Burnout: Signs and Support

Did you know there are over 2.65 million unpaid carers in Australia? Many carers don’t see themselves as carers—they see themselves as simply supporting a loved one.

But providing ongoing care for a family member, spouse, or friend with a disability, chronic illness, or ageing-related needs can be physically, emotionally, and mentally draining. Over time, this can lead to carer burnout, which affects both the carer and the person they support.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or struggling to cope, you’re not alone, and support is available across regional Victoria, Melbourne’s outer west, and border communities in New South Wales and South Australia.

Signs of Carer Burnout and Why They Happen

Caring for someone you love can be rewarding, but the relentless responsibility, emotional strain, and physical demands can take a serious toll. Here are some key warning signs and why they occur.

Emotional exhaustion

Caring for someone full-time or even part-time can feel overwhelming. You might feel anxious, helpless, or constantly on edge. Emotional exhaustion happens when you are constantly giving but don’t have time to replenish your own energy.

Physical fatigue and sleep issues

Many carers struggle with ongoing tiredness due to long hours, interrupted sleep, or the physical effort of assisting someone with daily tasks. When you don’t get enough rest, it becomes harder to manage stress, stay healthy, and keep up with responsibilities.

Increased irritability and frustration

Feeling frustrated or snappy, even over small things, is a common burnout sign. This doesn’t mean you don’t love the person you’re caring for—it means you’re under stress and need a break.

Neglecting personal needs

Skipping meals, avoiding exercise, and not taking time for yourself can lead to poor physical and mental health. Many carers put their loved one’s needs first and forget to care for themselves.

Feelings of guilt or inadequacy

Carers often feel like they’re not doing enough, even when they’re giving everything they have. This guilt can prevent carers from asking for help, which only makes burnout worse.

Social withdrawal and isolation

Many carers stop seeing friends, drop out of hobbies, and feel disconnected from the world outside of caregiving. This can lead to loneliness and depression.

Burnout doesn’t mean you’re a bad person—it means you need support

One of the biggest misconceptions about carer burnout is that it reflects a lack of love for the person being cared for. This couldn’t be further from the truth.

Feeling exhausted, frustrated, or needing time away does not mean you don’t care—it means you’re human. Caring for someone is a huge responsibility, and no one can do it alone without feeling the strain. The emotional, physical, and mental load of caregiving is enormous, and needing support is not a sign of failure.

Taking care of yourself makes you a better carer in the long run. If you’re feeling burned out, don’t ignore it—help is available, and you deserve support.

Where to find support

Carer Gateway – Australia’s national support service for carers

Carer Gateway is a free national support service for unpaid carers. Services include:

• Counselling and emotional support
• Respite care (short breaks from caring)
• Financial assistance and skills programs
• Online peer support groups

Call 1800 422 737 or visit www.carergateway.gov.au.

State-based carer organisations

If you need more tailored support, carer organisations in your state can provide advice, respite services, and financial assistance.

• Carers Victoria – Support and advocacy for carers in Victoria. Call 1800 514 845 or visit www.carersvictoria.org.au.
• Carers New South Wales – Support for carers in New South Wales. Call 1800 242 636 or visit www.carersnsw.org.au.
• Carers South Australia – Support for carers in South Australia. Call 1800 422 737 or visit www.carerssa.com.au.

Lifely’s carer and family support services

For carers in regional Victoria, Melbourne’s outer west, and border communities in New South Wales and South Australia, Lifely provides practical support to help ease the pressure. Lifely delivers its carer and family support services from its main offices in Ballarat, Bendigo, and Mildura.

• In-home respite – Trained support workers care for your loved one while you take a break.
• Carer respite events and day trips – Enjoy time out with other carers or fun outings with your family.
• Supported family holidays – Affordable, accessible getaways with expert support.
• Sibling social groups – Fun events for children who have a sibling with a disability.
• Carers Chill and Chat – Relaxed gatherings where carers can connect and share experiences.

You don’t have to do this alone. Contact our team to talk about carer and family support today.