Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s some tips!

We all know life is not a linear journey and it’s completely normal to experience a wide range of emotions. However, we also know there are times when those emotions become overwhelming, leaving us feeling drained and out of balance. Here are some effective ways to deal with those overwhelming emotions. 

The first tip is to recognize and acknowledge your emotions. Take a moment to check in with yourself and identify the emotions you're experiencing. Are you feeling sad, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed? Simply acknowledging your emotions can help bring a sense of clarity and understanding.

Next, we have to give ourselves grace during those times. Be kind to yourself during times of emotional overload. Remember that it's okay to feel what you're feeling. You can practice giving yourself grace by relaying to yourself words of kindness and understanding. Be empathetic with yourself and know you are on a journey to better understanding yourself. Remember you will feel more free from overwhelming emotions with time. 

While you may be getting better at managing your emotions, sometimes, the best thing you can do when you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed is to take a break and step away from the situation. Give yourself permission to take some time for yourself, whether it's going for a walk, practicing deep breathing exercises, or engaging in a favorite hobby. Taking a break can help you gain a new perspective. 

A really helpful tool is mindfulness. It involves being fully present in the moment and observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment on yourself. Practice mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or body scanning to help calm your mind and regulate your emotions. Mindfulness can help you become more aware of your emotional state, which can help you find effective ways to manage those emotions. 

Don't be afraid to reach out for support when you're feeling emotionally overwhelmed. Whether it's talking to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist, sharing your feelings with others can provide comfort and validation. Trying to have a strong face while you are struggling can be more detrimental to your mental health. We do better when we are connected with others. On the other side of this though, is the importance of setting boundaries. Sometimes that connection may be hurting you emotionally. Maybe it’s saying yes to anyone who needs help, but instead of feeling energized you feel exhausted. Being able to say no to things that are emotionally damaging is a step towards being emotionally healthy. 

Another key tip is engaging in self care activities. Find something that fills you up spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Sometimes we just need something to bring us joy to bring us back to the present moment. By recognizing those activities that bring us joy, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in connection, we are learning to manage those stressful emotions we experience. Through this awareness we can go through our day feeling prepared to take on whatever may come our way!