What to Do When Life Feels Like Too Much?
I'm sitting here refreshing my weather channel feed, watching the next major hurricane headed toward the coast. This time my family is in its path. And I'm still shocked from the images and devastation of Hurricane Helene across the southeast US. I'm juggling the news of a devastating diagnosis in someone I care about, and life just feels like a lot right now. Then there are wars waging elsewhere in the world. There's nothing I can do about any of these situations, and yet there are still obligations, deadlines, emails, and requests to juggle.
So what do you do when life feels like too much? This is often a very individualized approach, but here are some options. You can pick one or a few and see if they help you feel supported:
Don't forget to hydrate, and add electrolytes so your brain can function more efficiently.
Add protein. Stabilizing blood sugar can help with the frantic fight or flight feeling and keep your blood sugar from contributing to your overwhelming emotions.
Move. Physically burn off the stress hormones through a high intensity workout or just a walk outside in nature (if your weather is cooperative).
Add music. Or a podcast. Or an audiobook. Get your mind out of the perpetual cycle of worry.
Sleep a little more - this is another way to physically remove the stress from your body and allow your brain to do a deep cleaning cycle (some of my favorite supplements for restorative sleep include Loomis Enzymes SLP and CortAlign (bioclinic naturals), but supplements containing magnesium, valerian root, and L-theanine can all support a more relaxed and restful state).
Reach out. Don't let yourself spin around in the same repetitive thoughts. Call a friend or family member and catch up. Doing mindless tasks while talking on the phone is one of my favorite ways to tackle things like mountains of laundry and dishes.
Turn off the major news. Don't go down the spiral of worry. Step away and trust all the important information will find you.
Recognizing Your Limits and Seeking Help
It's important to understand that there's a difference between feeling stressed and being overwhelmed to the point where you can't cope. You know yourself best - you know whether you can handle the events of the day or whether they're beyond your current capacity to manage.
There's no shame in admitting when things are too much. In fact, recognizing when you've reached your limit is a sign of self-awareness and strength. If you find yourself in a situation where the strategies above aren't enough, or if you feel like you're struggling to keep your head above water, it's crucial to reach out for professional help.
If you're feeling overwhelmed and need immediate support, please don't hesitate to reach out. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides a helpline that offers free, confidential support. You can call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text "NAMI" to 741741 for 24/7 crisis support.
Remember, it's okay to ask for help when life feels like too much. You're not alone in this, and there are people and resources available to support you through difficult times.
I wrote this post for myself based on my current situation, but I'm sharing it in hopes it can help you, too.
❤️ May you be well and find peace during the chaotic times of life,
Dr. Stephanie
