Work, school, socializing, and life in general can be overwhelming at times. But it’s important that in those moments, we have patience with ourselves. Prioritizing your mental health matters, and sometimes it’s difficult to just “push through.” Instead, develop a self-care plan to help you through those overwhelming times. Not sure where to start? Try these tips for taking care of yourself when it all feels like a little too much.
Breathe and Step Away
Sometimes, the best thing we can do when we feel overwhelmed is to take a few deep breaths and step away from the situation. Get some fresh air, go for a short walk, or grab a cup of coffee. Give yourself a few minutes, then return with a clear mind.
Ask Yourself What You Need
When you feel overwhelmed, ask yourself what you need at that moment, then do exactly that. Do you need a change of scenery? A quick chat with a friend? Listen to your mind and body and give it what it wants.
Just Say No
It can be difficult to set boundaries with others, but instead of agreeing to everything and overcommitting, understand you have the power to say no. Creating healthy boundaries and telling people no will help with those feelings of overwhelm and value yourself more.
Seek Out the Familiar
Have you ever wondered why you watch the same TV series over and over again? It’s simple: It’s familiar, and we can sit back, relax, and enjoy. So the next time you feel overwhelmed, listen to an old song, turn on your favorite movie or show, or read a familiar book. Seeking out the familiar means we can turn our brains off – even for 30 minutes.
Turn It Down
Sometimes we need a break from our social obligations, including phone calls, texts, and social media notifications. Place your phone on “do not disturb” and temporarily disable notifications from social media platforms. Focus more on relaxing things.
Write It Out
Journaling can largely impact how you handle your feelings. Take a moment to jot down what’s happening around you, how you feel, and how you plan on dealing with it.
Recognize the Season You’re In
Many of us experience stretches of time that feel like nonstop chaos. In these moments, it’s important to note that while it may be a few weeks before things return to “normal,” in the grand scheme of things, a few weeks isn’t that long.
Separate Your To-Dos
There is nothing wrong with being a list maker, but you don’t want to create a massively long to-do list that is virtually impossible to complete. Instead, try separating your lists into tasks you can do now and those you can do later. This will help you see what to prioritize and what can wait.
Do you have any tips for caring for yourself when overwhelmed? Share them with us in the comments below!