Collaborative Post
Feeling overwhelmed: two words that could accurately describe how many of us are feeling during this current predicament. Lockdown and the pandemic have thrown us all off course, and we are all desperately trying to keep our families healthy during this difficult time. It can be very easy to become overwhelmed with everything that is currently going on, and stress can be the consequence.
During times such as these it is difficult to stay calm, but for our mental wellbeing, we should do what we can to help ourselves. The same applies for any other situation where stress might threaten to overwhelm us. But how can we stay calm? It’s not easy but the following can be helpful.
Take a walk
It can be easy to do nothing but panic when life overwhelms us, but we need to take an active step away from our worries. We mean this literally in one sense as taking a walk can be a good idea. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress, as the activity releases endorphins that can boost our mental wellbeing. We can get a better perspective when we’re out of the confines of our homes, as we have time to think and reframe the situation we are worried about.
Talk it out
We need to do something about the stress and negative thoughts that build up inside us. If we don’t vent how we are feeling, we can sometimes exacerbate the way we feel. This is why talking to somebody can help. We can let go of the things that are bothering us by verbalising them. and we can draw on the support of another. There is more in this article on the benefits of talking about our problems, so ring a friend, talk to a trusted family member, or book yourself an appointment with a professional counsellor when you need to offload how you’re feeling.
Try stress-relieving techniques
For some, quiet meditation works. Others prefer to get their thoughts down in a journal, as this is another way to vent the thoughts that are circulating inside. Breathing exercises are useful to many people. And there is evidence that progressive muscle relaxation can reduce body tension and psychological stress. Try some of these or all of these, and stick with what works for you.
Go back to what has worked for you in the past
You know what works for you, so list down all of the strategies you have used in the past, and go back to them.
It might be that laughing away your worries with a comedy film has been useful to you before. If so, consider a subscription to Netflix or dig out your old DVDs. If you’re somebody who has found vaping useful, perhaps because holding an e-cigarette has stabilised your nerves, consider replenishing your supplies. The linked site here sells Vampire Vapes and other popular brands. You could also use aromatherapy, listen to relaxing music, or spend time in a playful activity with your kids. . Think about what any strategy that has distracted you from your stresses in the past, and spend time in those activities that you know might calm you.
Life can be overwhelming, especially during these turbulent times, but we should do what we can to reduce the stresses we feel. So, consider these suggestions and search online for other strategies on finding calm. When you find what works for you, you will be better equipped to deal with any struggles that might sometimes threaten to overwhelm you.
