A Caregiver's Burden

I’ve always been drawn to taking care of others. I’m a trans woman in my early 30s, and there’s something deeply satisfying about nurturing someone, seeing them thrive under your guidance. Recently, I started a dynamic with another person, one that leans into the caregiver role but without labels like 'Daddy' or 'Mommy'. It’s an adult-to-adult connection where they rely on me for emotional support and comfort, almost as if they’re seeking the security of a parent figure but understanding it's not actually familial. I’ve found myself increasingly invested in their happiness and wellbeing, sometimes at my own expense. There are days when the weight of being solely responsible for someone else’s mental health feels overwhelming. Yet, there’s also an undeniable warmth that comes from knowing I’m making a difference in their life. The intimacy we share is profound yet complicated; it’s not romantic or sexual, but rather a deep emotional bond. Do any of you have similar experiences? Or perhaps insights on balancing care and self-care?