Caring for someone can be deeply meaningful, but it can also be exhausting. 

Over time, the physical, emotional and mental load of caring can build up, especially when support is limited. Many carers experience stress, isolation, financial pressure or changes in their own health. 

If this is happening to you, you are not alone. It does not mean you are doing anything wrong. 

Why burnout matters 

Burnout often builds gradually when caring demands stay high and there is not enough time, support or recovery. It can affect: 

• Physical health, including sleep, energy levels and recovery from illness 
• Mental health, including anxiety, low mood, irritability and feeling emotionally drained 
• Relationships, work, study and social connection 
• Your ability to continue caring safely and sustainably over time 

The earlier you notice the signs, the easier it can be to get support. 

Signs you may need more support 

Many carers put their own needs last, so burnout can be easy to miss. 

Burnout may be more likely if caring is intense, your sleep is disrupted, you are managing most of the care on your own, money is tight, or the person you support has complex needs. 

You may need more support if you notice: 

• Persistent tiredness, poor sleep or feeling exhausted even after rest 
• Feeling overwhelmed, irritable, numb or emotionally drained 
• Difficulty concentrating, making decisions or staying on top of daily tasks 
• Withdrawing from friends, family, work or activities you usually enjoy 
• Frequent headaches, illness, low motivation, or relying on alcohol or other drugs to cope 
• Feeling like you have to manage everything alone 

These signs are common, and they matter. They may be a gentle signal that you need more support, more rest, or a chance to share some of the load. 

What can help 

There is no single right way to reduce burnout. A mix of practical, emotional and social support is often most helpful. 

This might include: 

• Taking planned respite or short regular breaks before you reach crisis point 
• Sharing caring tasks where possible, including asking for specific practical help 
• Using skills-based or psychoeducation programs to build confidence, coping and problem-solving 
• Accessing counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)-based support, mindfulness or other mental health support 
• Joining peer, community or carer support groups to reduce isolation and share strategies 
• Getting help with care coordination, appointments, transport, paperwork or daily tasks 
• Setting realistic expectations, routines and boundaries that protect your own health 

Even small changes can help. Regular check-ins, practical support and early conversations can make a real difference over time. 

For families and carers of veterans 

For families of veterans, caring responsibilities may be shaped by service-related injury, illness, trauma, ageing or transition out of Defence. 

Carers may also be balancing work, parenting, advocacy, appointments, paperwork and their own health needs. Support that understands military and veteran family experiences can help carers feel seen, reduce pressure and improve wellbeing. 

Getting support 

If things are starting to feel heavy, reaching out early can help. 

You might consider: 

• Exploring respite, in-home support or practical help with daily tasks 
• Talking with your GP, a counsellor, social worker or another health professional about carer strain 
• Joining a carer or peer support service to reduce isolation and share strategies 
• Asking family, friends or services for specific help, such as transport, meals, paperwork or appointment support 
• Seeking help to understand and navigate available services and supports 

Where to get support 

You do not have to work this out on your own. These services can help with practical support, counselling, respite, financial help and crisis support. 

• Carer Gateway – Support for unpaid carers, including counselling, coaching, peer support, tailored support packages, and planned or emergency respite. Call 1800 422 737. Visit the Carer Gateway website. 
• Open Arms – Free counselling and wellbeing support for veterans and families of veterans, including carers. Call 1800 011 046. Visit the Open Arms website. 
• Services Australia – Information about Carer Payment, Carer Allowance and other financial support for carers. Visit the Services Australia website. 
• My Aged Care – Information about respite and other aged care supports for older people and their carers. Call 1800 200 422. Visit the My Aged Care website. 
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) – Information about disability supports that may help the person you care for and reduce pressure on carers. Call 1800 800 110. Visit the NDIS website. 
• Lifeline – 24/7 crisis support if you are overwhelmed, in emotional distress, or worried about safety. Call 13 11 14. Visit the Lifeline website. 
• Beyond Blue – 24/7 mental health support and counselling. Call 1300 22 4636. Visit the Beyond Blue website. 

If burnout is affecting your health, sleep, safety or ability to cope, it may be time to seek extra support. 

If you are in immediate danger or worried about your safety or someone else’s, call emergency services on 000. 

Caring can be hard, and support can make a difference. You do not have to carry it all on your own.