Tuesday Health & Wellness
Taking Care of Yourself When Everything Feels Like Too Much

Today, this topic is personal.

I woke up in pain, with questions on my mind and emotions close to the surface. I’m trying to prepare for surgery, understand information, and make sure I’m doing everything that needs to be done.

But today, I felt overwhelmed.

Sometimes we keep handling one thing after another until we realize how exhausted we are. Then someone says, “Just relax.”

Okay… but how?

For anyone having that kind of day, let’s talk about some small ways to care for ourselves.

Start with a pause

Sit somewhere comfortable. Let your shoulders settle. Try a few slow, gentle breaths without forcing them. Look around and notice something familiar—the light through your window, a plant, your cat sleeping nearby.

You don’t have to figure everything out during that pause. Give yourself a little room to settle. Relaxation practices and breaks from stressful information can help with managing stress. (cdc.gov)

Make the next step smaller

When my thoughts are running in every direction, I need something I can see.

A piece of paper can hold three simple questions:

• What needs my attention today?
• What can wait?
• What am I waiting for someone else to do?

Pick one manageable task. Setting priorities and recognizing when you’ve taken on too much are part of caring for your mental health. (nimh.nih.gov)

Check on your basic needs

Have you eaten? Had something to drink? Given yourself a chance to rest?

Regular meals, hydration, and a consistent sleep routine support your well-being. Pay attention to caffeine and alcohol, too, because they can affect how you feel and sleep. Keep following any medical instructions specific to you. (nimh.nih.gov)

The meal can be simple. Caring for yourself does not have to become another complicated assignment.

Give yourself a break from incoming information

Messages, news, emails, and notifications can keep demanding your attention.

If you’re waiting for something important, you can choose a time to check again and step away briefly. The CDC recommends taking breaks from news and social media when they add to stress. (cdc.gov)

For me, watching the birds outside my window gives my attention somewhere quieter to land.

Tell someone what kind of help you need

Sometimes we need someone to listen. Sometimes we need help with a meal, a phone call, or sorting through instructions.

Be specific when you can:

“I’m overwhelmed. Could you sit with me while I make this list?”

Staying connected with people who offer emotional and practical support is one recommended way to care for your mental health. (nimh.nih.gov)

Make room for something comforting

Music. Prayer. An audiobook. A quiet moment with your animals. Something you enjoy that asks very little of you.

There is room in the day for more than the problem you’re trying to solve. Making time to unwind and connect with others can help you cope with stress. (cdc.gov)

Know when you need more support

If the stress keeps getting worse, affects your ability to manage daily life, or leaves you struggling with sleep, appetite, or concentration, reach out to a healthcare professional. You can ask for help before things become unbearable. (nimh.nih.gov)

Today, I needed to take time off. I needed to acknowledge that my emotions were raw and that trying to work the phones while handling my own concerns was too much.

I’m still learning how to give myself the same care I try to give others.

You may still have unanswered questions at the end of the day. You can still eat, rest, ask for help, and give yourself a quiet moment while those answers are coming.

What helps you feel a little more settled when life becomes overwhelming?

From Flava in Her Tower, learning to care for herself too 🌻