put a strain on (someone or something)
To place an undue or overwhelming burden on someone's or something's resources or ability to cope. I know my brother's illness has really been putting a strain on our parents. The financial crisis placed a huge strain on the Department of Social Welfare in particular.
put a strain on someone or something
to burden or overload someone or something. All this bad economic news puts a strain on everyone's nerves. The epidemic put a strain on the resources of the hospital.