When Caregiving Feels Overwhelming: Finding Support and Respite

Caring for a child—whether as a foster parent, biological caregiver, or kinship provider—can be one of the most rewarding roles in life. But it can also be one of the hardest.

Between appointments, schoolwork, emotional ups and downs, and everything else that comes with raising children, it’s easy for caregivers to feel stretched thin. Add in the complexities of supporting a child with behavioral or mental health needs, and “burnout” can start to feel like an understatement.

It's normal to hear: “I love my kids, but I’m exhausted.”

That feeling doesn’t make you a bad parent, it makes you human.

The Weight of Caregiving

Caregiving takes emotional energy, patience, and time. Many caregivers put their own needs last because they’re so focused on ensuring their child’s are met. Over time, that can lead to:

• Constant fatigue or irritability

• Trouble sleeping or concentrating

• Feeling isolated or unsupported

• Guilt for needing a break

  
  

If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. Burnout is a signal, not a flaw. It’s your body and mind’s way of saying it’s time to refill your own cup.

Why Respite and Support Matter

Respite simply means taking a break. It’s not selfish, it’s essential. When caregivers have time to rest, connect with others, or simply breathe, they return with renewed energy and patience.

Support doesn’t always have to look like formal respite services (though those can be life-changing). It might also mean:

• Swapping childcare with another trusted family

• Asking a friend or relative to help with errands

• Scheduling time each week just for yourself—even if it’s 30 minutes

• Reaching out to a support group where others “get it”

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Every caregiver deserves to feel supported, not stretched to the limit.

How Every Child Supports Caregivers

We believe supporting families starts with supporting the caregivers themselves. Through our Family-Based Mental Health Services, Foster Care Program, Caregiver Support Program, and community partnerships, we help connect families to:

• Clinical and emotional support

• Crisis intervention and behavioral health resources

• Community programs and respite opportunities

• A network of people who truly understand the challenges of caregiving

  
  

Our goal is simple: no caregiver should ever feel like they have to do it all alone.

Giving Yourself Permission to Pause

Taking time for yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Children thrive when their caregivers feel stable, rested, and supported. That starts with giving yourself permission to take a step back, even briefly, when things feel heavy.

So the next time you feel overwhelmed, try saying this: “I’m doing my best, and it’s okay to need help.”

Then take one small step; call a friend, go for a walk, or reach out for support.

You Don’t Have to Carry It Alone

At Every Child, Inc., we’re here to walk alongside you. Whether you need help finding respite, accessing mental health services, or just understanding what support looks like for your family, we can help connect you to the right resources.

You’re caring for others, let us help care for you, too.

Visit www.everychildinc.org/services to learn more about our programs or contact us directly.