10 Warning Signs A Sandwich Mom Is On The Verge Of Burnout

You wake up in the morning after a horrible night's sleep. You're dragging yourself out of bed. But after a sip of your coffee, you're feeling more lively. Afternoon hits. You're feeling drained as you watch the clock. But you manage to get a couple of things checked off on your to-do list before wrapping up the day.

It's normal to feel tired at certain times of the day. Energy comes and goes. However, if you're feeling constantly tired, both physically and emotionally, this could be a sign you're about to burn out. This could mean not feeling alert or engaged in anything you do. You are completely exhausted. No amount of coffee could help you cope.

A coworker is chewing loudly at lunch. Your son leaves a dirty sock on the stairs. Is it easy for these annoyances to get under your skin? Are you screaming at the top of your lungs at the kids for things you don't normally go into "rage mode" over?

If you're quick feel angry or frustrated, especially over minor issues, this could be a sign you're about to burn out.

It's hard to take care of yourself when you're mind is preoccupied with your parents' needs and kids' schedules. But if taking on their responsibilities is making you forget to shower or feed yourself, you could be doing too much. Ignoring personal needs, such as proper nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep, is a sign of burnout.

Ask yourself: when was the last time you went out with friends or had a date night with your partner? If you can't remember, ask yourself why. If you're avoiding social interactions, intentionally isolating yourself, and withdrawing from friends and family, this could mean you need to reach out for help.

Every sandwich mom has a massive to-do list. But if you're not checking items off as often as you usually do, this could be a sign of burnout. When you're overstressed and overwhelmed, you can lose motivation to accomplish and complete tasks.

It's OK to not remember where you put the car keys or your phone sometimes. We all get a bit forgetful. However, if you forget important dates like major work deadlines, medical appointments, or job interviews, you may be overly exhausted.

Burnout doesn't just affect your mental wellbeing. Your body will also tell you. Some physical symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Stomach issues
• Getting sick more often 
• Sleeping problems
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Changes in appetite

When you're busy, it's OK to put your hobbies on the back burner. However, losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable is a warning sign. 

For instance, if you were given the time and opportunity to read your favorite book, attend a class, or spend the day at the spa, how would you feel? If you're not excited, it may be a sign you're spreading yourself too thin.

When you think about everything you need to do during the day, how do you feel? It may be a lot but do you think you can handle it? Feeling consistently overwhelmed by your responsibilities as a sandwich mom is a warning sign of burnout.

Do you have trouble concentrating? Does your mind constantly wander off and you have difficulty focusing on what you're doing?

Lastly, feeling emotionally and mentally exhausted to the point where you can't function may mean you are vulnerable to burnout. 

If you're experiencing any of these signs, it's important to prioritize yourself and get help. This could mean delegating tasks to create time for self-care routines, learning to say no to additional commitments, and communicating your feelings and concerns to family members. 

Reach out to other sandwich moms who understand the challenges and share experiences and advice. Consider therapy or counseling to discuss and manage stressors. Professional guidance can provide coping strategies and emotional support.