69. Protecting Our Caregivers

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Caregiving can slowly reshape a relationship, often in ways people do not talk about. 

In this episode, Dr. Zeest Khan speaks with Kim Moy about the emotional and practical realities of long-term caregiving.

YOU'LL LEARN:

• Why burnout creeps up slowly, and the early warning signs to watch for
• What "ambiguous loss" is and why naming it changes everything
• How to keep your relationship alive when illness takes over
• Practical tools: the task audit, the 5-minute morning ritual, and the "good jobs list"
• When and how to ask for help even when you have no budget

Kim has spent more than 30 years caring for her husband who lives with ME/CFS while raising two children and working full time. She shares the idea of “ambiguous loss,” the grief of losing the person someone once was while they are still physically present, and why acknowledging that grief can help caregivers reconnect with their loved ones.

Kim also shares practical tools she teaches caregivers. She explains how to spot early signs of burnout and how to keep illness from defining the entire relationship. She also shares simple daily practices that help caregivers restore their energy and recognize the invisible work they do.

Listen to the episode to hear Kim’s insights and practical guidance for navigating caregiving while protecting your health and your relationship.

Resources for chronic illness caregivers:

• Website & support resources: https://www.caregiverwisdom.net
• Weekly caregiver newsletter: https://newsletter.caregiverwisdom.net
• Caregiver burnout quiz: https://www.caregiverwisdom.net/burnoutquiz

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