Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience for many people, and it can be a challenging feeling to navigate. Whether it’s caused by work, relationships, or various responsibilities, an overwhelming feeling can leave us feeling stressed, anxious, and exhausted. Thankfully, there are ways to tackle this feeling and to become less overwhelmed.
Identify
The first step is to identify the source of the overwhelm. This may seem obvious, but sometimes it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what is causing the feeling. Take some time to reflect on what is going on in your life and try to identify any specific situations or tasks that are causing stress. Once you have identified the source, you can begin to take action to address it. This can look like creating a to-do list with the most important/time-sensitive tasks first.
Step by step to reduce overwhelm
One helpful technique is to break down the overwhelming task or situation into smaller, more manageable parts. This can help you to feel less intimidated by the task and give you a sense of control. For example, if you are feeling overwhelmed by the thought of cleaning your house, break this down into smaller tasks, such as sweeping the kitchen, putting away dishes, and sorting the laundry. Ticking off the smaller tasks that you have accomplished can help you to feel more organized and in control of the situation.
Level of importance
Another helpful technique is to prioritize your tasks and responsibilities. Often, when we feel overwhelmed, we have a lot of competing demands for our time and energy. By prioritizing these tasks and responsibilities, you can focus your energy on the most important and time-sensitive things first, finishing with the less important or time-sensitive tasks last. This can help you to feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Break up the tasks
It’s also important to take care of yourself when you’re feeling overwhelmed. This means taking breaks when you need them, getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that you enjoy. These self-care practices can help to reduce stress and anxiety and give you the energy you need to tackle the tasks that are causing you to feel overwhelmed. For example, you can clean the kitchen for 45 minutes, take a 15 minute break, then tackle the living room for another 45 minutes, and then take another 15 minute break.
Seek support
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Sometimes, we need support from others to help us navigate difficult situations. Reach out to friends, family members, or colleagues for support and guidance. You may also want to consider seeking help from a professional therapist who can provide you with additional resources and strategies for coping with overwhelming feelings.
Review
In conclusion, feeling overwhelmed is a common experience, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. By identifying the source of your overwhelm, breaking tasks down into smaller parts, prioritizing your responsibilities, taking care of yourself, and seeking support when you need it, you can tackle overwhelming feelings and become less overwhelmed. Remember, it’s okay to take things one step at a time and to ask for help when you need it.
About Therapist Bethany Winter, MA, LPC Barnum Counseling
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