Caregiver burnout is a serious problem. Individuals usually are thrown into the caregiving scenario with not a lot of warning. It’s not like when you are going to have a baby – you have nine months to wrap your head around that fact – make your plans – and prepare your life. Caregiving is usually thrust upon us through an unforeseen illness or disease that suddenly changes all the plans and sends life off in a new direction.

When this whirlwind descends into your life it is hard to hold on to a secure framework. Maybe you used to have an extensive social network or an exercise routine or a job … and it all gets thrown into disarray by this new diagnosis. Typically a daughter steps up and shoulders a big part of the caregiving burden…and with that burden comes many unexpected relationship issues.

In this interview with Dr. Paul Nussbaum we talk about practical steps individuals can take to avoid caregiver burnout.