Do people act as if you’re choosing to do all that you do? And choosing to have no time for yourself?

This article by Cassie Green on Kapok explains the relationship and cultural dynamics that push people into providing for others, even at great cost to themselves and sometimes beyond what’s actually needed. Gendered expectations, self centered parents or spouses, religion, and other forces push people into giving to everyone else first — and then that same culture judges them harshly for it! They dismiss burnout by insisting that the caregiver chose to do everything they did.

The article also explains how to gain a fresh perspective on your situation, a process that can take a bit of time and soul searching, in order to find a way to provide care in a sustainable way or decide it’s time to step away.

If you’re in this position, you may find it helpful to join our caregiving transitions private Facebook group.

Read more on Kapok.