SYMPTOMS OF CAREGIVER SUFFERING

Physical

Fatigue

Exhaustion

Hyperactivity

Weight gain/loss

Persistent ailments (headaches, gastrointestinal troubles)

Impaired sleep

Susceptibility to illness

Emotional

Fear

Guilt

Resentment

Sorrow, grief

Depression

Anxiety

Confusion

Sarcasm, cynicism

Emotional outbursts, shutdown

Feeling overwhelmed

Behavioral

Addictive behavior

Controlling behavior

Shaming others

Offended behavior

Depersonalization

Apathy

Indifference

Avoidance

Boundary violations

Erosion of relationships

Spiritual

Crisis of faith

Loss of control

Hopelessness

Loss of self worth

Disrupted religious practice

Disconnection with people, work, community

Source: Research by therapist Ruth McKay