Burnout and emotional load — you matter too

Feeling exhausted, isolated, or blamed is common in this work and it is not a personal failure. Caring for yourself is part of the job — and real support exists: peers, your agency, and free counseling resources.

1. 1Name it: trouble sleeping, dreading shifts, feeling numb or resentful — these are burnout signs, not weakness.
2. 2Small protective habits: real breaks on shift, one thing that recharges you daily, and talking to someone who understands the work.
3. 3SEIU 775 members: the Peer Mentor program connects you with an experienced HCA (free, multilingual) — call the MRC 1-866-371-3200.
4. 4Agency workers: ask HR whether an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers free counseling sessions.
5. 5If a client-family situation is the source, document the pattern and ask your supervisor for a case conference — you should not absorb it alone.
6. 6If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988 now — it is 24/7 and confidential.

The training itself says caregivers must care for themselves to care for others. Asking for help is a professional skill, not a confession.