How to combat everyday overwhelm

Right this minute drop your shoulders and loosen your jaw. If you can, take a moment to give yourself a quick pep talk. Remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments. Think about how you’ve overcome challenges in the past, and reassure yourself that you can handle whatever comes your way. If you don’t have the energy to do this for yourself, Elise McCann and I have got you covered in our app Hey Lemonade which is bursting with hundreds of quick three to four minute talks for you, all backed by psychologists, tested by the CSIRO and offered in at least three different voices so you can choose how you hear support. There are five free pep talks waiting for you right now.

Take a moment to work out what your priorities are. Make a list if that helps. If, by chance, nothing ends up being a priority this very second, give yourself a few minutes to sit or lie down and do nothing. If this is not an option, take a breath in… and out… Then, look at your list, identify the most important tasks and tackle them first. Breaking the tasks down into manageable chunks can help you feel more in control.

To manage this stressful period, take a few moments each day to be present. Focus on your breath, or your hands as you wash them, or how the water feels in the shower and try to actively let go of any thoughts or worries that may be causing you stress, Maybe imagine them floating away from you in a bubble, or imagine hanging them like decorations on a tree.

Drink lots of water and exercise if you can. Exercise is a great way to release tension and boost your mood. Whether it’s a quick walk, taking the stairs or a full blown dance class, physical activity can help you feel more energised and focused and bring in those endorphins.

Spending time with friends and loved ones can be a great way to reduce stress and feel supported. Sometimes you just need a phone call or text about a hilarious meme. Other times it’s an in-person visit. Connecting with others can help you feel less isolated and more connected. Chances are they might be feeling their own version of stress, so this will likely help them, too.

Even on the hardest days there are glimmers of good things to be found and the more you look for them, the more you’ll find them. And if you’re stuck, hunt down something that makes you laugh, whether that’s a tv show, an actual live stand up comedy show, a chat with a funny friend or your pet who just ‘gets you’. Laughter has been shown to reduce stress levels and boost overall mood.

It’s important to prioritise self-care and take time for yourself. Self-care doesn’t have to be something significant like a bath or massage (but lucky you if you can manage either of those things!). Little things like brushing your teeth or your hair or patting a pet can be little acts of love that can take very little time, bring you joy and help you refresh. Giving yourself a break can help you recharge and come back to your tasks with renewed focus and energy. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish, it’s necessary for your well-being and will actually make you more productive in the long run.

Just like that time you thought that bad haircut would last forever, this too shall pass. It may not happen overnight, but with time, patience, and perseverance, you can overcome stress and come out stronger on the other side. So, keep pushing forward my friend, and remember that every moment is a chance to start anew.

No one is immune to stress or overwhelm. By acknowledging that stress is a normal part of the human experience, we can shift our mindset and develop more compassion for ourselves and others. As the great Maya Angelou once said, “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” You are not reduced by your overwhelm.