Feeling overwhelmed by everyday life is a common experience for many people. Managing work, family, social obligations, and personal responsibilities can lead to stress and a sense of being stretched too thin. Here are some strategies to help you handle feeling overwhelmed and regain a sense of balance:
Strategies when feeling Overwhelmed
- Prioritise -Take a step back and identify the most important tasks and commitments in your life. Focus on these priorities and let go of the less important things that may be contributing to your feeling of being overwhelmed (Carver, 2023).
- Break it down – Large, daunting tasks can impact feelings of overwhelm. Break down big tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This can make them feel less scary and more achievable (Carver, 2023).
- Time management – Use time management techniques such as creating a schedule or to-do list to organize your day. Setting aside specific time for different tasks can help you feel more in control of your time and reduce overwhelming feelings (Carver, 2023).
- Learn to say no – It’s important to set boundaries and recognise your own limits. It’s okay to politely decline new commitments if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Learn to say no to extra responsibilities that you can’t take on (Carver, 2023).
- Take breaks – Overworking yourself can worsen overwhelming feelings. Schedule regular breaks throughout your day to rest and recharge. This can significantly improve your ability to manage stress (Carver, 2023).
- Practice self-care – Engage in activities that promote relaxation and wellbeing, such as meditation, exercise, or spending time with loved ones. Taking care of yourself is vital for managing these feelings (Carver, 2023).
- Seek support – Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. Whether it’s delegating tasks at work or seeking emotional support from friends or family, having a support system can ease overwhelming feelings (Carver, 2023).
- Limit distractions – Minimise distractions such as a high amount of screen time or multitasking, which can contribute to feeling overwhelmed. Focusing on one task at a time can help you feel more in control (Carver, 2023).
- Adjust expectations – Sometimes, overwhelming feelings stem from setting unrealistic expectations for yourself. Adjust your expectations and strive for progress, not perfection (Carver, 2023).
- Seek professional help – However, If these feelings persist and start to impact your daily life or mental health, consider seeking support from a mental health professional (Carver, 2023).
Remember, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed at times, but it’s important to recognize when it’s becoming a problem and take steps to address it. Thus, by using these strategies, you can regain a sense of balance and control in your everyday life.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Yasmine Bonnici graduated in Nursing and also completed her Masters in Counselling. She has worked with victims of domestic violence, clients dealing with suicidal ideations, bereavement, separation and anxieties. She is currently working with Willingness Team as a counsellor seeing clients who would like to explore their own identity and deal with any surfacing issues.
Bibliography
Carver, C. (2023) 12 things to remember when you are overwhelmed, Be More with Less. Available at: https://bemorewithless.com/feeling-overwhelmed/ (Accessed: 12 February 2024).