Stress & Feeling Overwhelmed

Stress can affect your mind and body.

You might notice:

• racing thoughts
• constant worrying
• feeling irritable or angry
• difficulty concentrating
• struggling to make decisions
• exhaustion
• headaches or muscle tension
• changes in appetite
• difficulty sleeping
• avoiding people
• feeling unable to switch off
• drinking more alcohol
• feeling like you’re losing control

Sometimes you don’t realise how much pressure you’re under until everyday things start becoming difficult.

Stress can make every problem feel like it needs solved immediately.

Usually it doesn’t.

Ask yourself:

“What actually needs my attention today?”

Then:

“What’s the smallest useful thing I can do next?”

You could also write things down under three headings:

Things I can do something about now

Things I can deal with later

Things I can’t control

You don’t need to carry all three at the same time.

Rest isn’t something you have to earn by finishing everything.

• Take a break.
• Go outside.
• Have something to eat.
• Put your phone away for a while.
• Listen to music.
• Take a shower.
• Talk to someone.

A break won’t solve everything, but it may help you approach the problem with a clearer head.

Sometimes reducing stress isn’t about learning to cope with more.

It’s about carrying less.

• Could somebody help with childcare?
• Could you speak to your employer about what’s happening?
• Could someone come with you to an appointment?
• Could you ask for help with a bill or financial problem?
• Could another family member take responsibility for something?

Asking for help isn’t failing to cope.

You don’t need to wait until you’re in crisis.

Try telling someone:

“I’ve got too much going on and I’m struggling.”

They might not be able to solve the situation.

But having somebody listen can make it feel less overwhelming.