What I did when feeling overwhelmed
This is a tough time. I was feeling it. Chances are, other people are facing challenges too. I felt overwhelmed by a pressure to get more work (and do more work), anxiety about my social life and confusion about the next steps. I am grateful to have eventually found guidance on all this. But until then, and as I continue to gradually journey, I have needed coping strategies when feeling overwhelmed.
Talk to someone
My first step is to talk with someone. This is important when reaching breaking point. I am willing to reveal that I do call the mental health phone lines. That’s why they exist. I also try to have a conversation with a friend if someone has time. I prefer talking with anyone who will avoid subjective judgment of my personal preferences. Sometimes I also don’t need to fix everything. That being said, sometimes the tangible problems need practical solutions. Either way, a conversation is important.
Drink more water
I have been really thirsty lately. I get distracted by life. I try to consciously remember to drink more water. For me, a mix of glasses and bottles work best. I don’t pressure myself to chug litres upon litres. I have been feeling slightly bloated and full (nearly that time of the month). Little sips of water are fine. If it happens often enough. That feels right for my body.
Listen to calming music
Whether I am writing at the computer or taking a break, calm music is magically healing. I have been choosing slow piano sounds. I select tracks on Spotify or Insight Timer. There are more recordings at Youtube and other apps.
Remember to breathe
I start by at least becoming aware of my breathing. And other physical tension too. Are my shoulders tense? Am I hyperventilating? Be aware. Be still. Slow down. Of course, I should meditate regularly. I know I should.
Eat healthy comfort food
When we’re in a lousy mood, it’s not the time to eat steamed broccoli with no seasoning (unless that’s what you’re craving). But there are fun foods that could brighten the spirit and nurture the gut. For lunch today, I made a brunch burrito. I sautéed a very veggie tofu scramble with balsamic vinegar plus a few other spices and seasonings. I put that in a wrap with veggie sausage. Mayo or avo would have made it even better. But I ran out of avocado and couldn’t open the mayo jar. That’s life. I then reheated some cacao berry porridge. It was in the fridge after a previous meal-prep. That chocolate taste felt perfect. Earlier in the week, I made hummus. That felt perfect with some toasted pitas (slightly processed but wholemeal). I believe in doing what we can. Choose the best possible option. Something that truly feels good.
Sleep (even have a nap)
We’re never too old for naps. My sleep has been interrupted at night. External experiences woke me up. I had no control over that. Then I woke up with a headache. My mood wouldn’t easily improve if I’m getting nearly half of my ideal hours. In the afternoon, my brain was done. I felt mentally and emotionally exhausted. My headache was continuing. I had a lay down. Yes, there were things to do at the laptop and beyond. That all had to wait. I had to become well enough to function. That nap felt good. Society underestimates the importance of sleep. It’s seriously needed.
Listen to a podcast
I should do this more often. Not to consume time that truly should be dedicated elsewhere. But in genuine spare time, the right podcast can be comforting. I like the episodes that feel like I am listening into a natural conversation about something I’m interested in. It’s what I need on the quiet days at home.
Do something creative for fun
I wrote this blog article after my rest. Although it has some commercial potential, my primary purpose involves just expressing my reality. I can list these coping strategies to share with others and remind myself too. This is what works for me. I know I need to allow more time for my creative side. Play the piano (even without perfection). Edit an image. Customise a Canva graphic. Plan a meal based on my ideas instead of recipe. Whatever feels creative and freeing. It gives a sense of purpose. Contribution to the self and the world.
Share the successes and gratitude
I am deeply grateful to the people who checked on me today. I am grateful for the motivational videos I watched on Youtube. Those personal development speakers save lives. I am grateful for the opportunities to gain healthy (or relatively healthy) food. I feel proud after having survived another day. Goals are great. My to-do-list has some cool stuff on it. But I looked after myself enough to get through today. That’s enough. Tomorrow will figure itself out when it arrives.
Healthy comfort food is essential for boosting my mood. Image: MSW
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