Caregiver Support Toolkit | CAREGIVER BURNOUT

You cannot pour from an empty cup – and burnout is not failure.

Caregiving for a child with sickle cell disease is one of the most emotionally demanding responsibilities imaginable. Your exhaustion is real, valid, and deserves attention.

SIGNS OF CAREGIVER BURNOUT

  • Feeling numb or detached from daily life
  • Crying unexpectedly or feeling hopeless
  • Chronic exhaustion that sleep doesn’t fix
  • Panic attacks or constant anxiety
  • Resentment or guilt about your own needs

BUILDING YOUR RESILIENCE TOOLKIT

  • Identify one person who can step in during hospitalizations
  • Keep a “what helps me” list for hard days
  • Practice naming your emotions – not just your child’s
  • Give yourself permission to rest without guilt
  • Celebrate small victories in the caregiving journey

KEY RESOURCES:

IT’S OK TO ASK FOR HELP

Resilience isn’t about going it alone – it’s about building a team. Accepting help is one of the most powerful things you can do for your child.

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