Posted on Aug. 05, 2021
Ever feel like you’re ‘drowning in it’? When everything is too much and you don’t have the time, space or mental energy for all that’s happening? Some people say their overwhelm appears out of the blue. Others say it creeps up; they can feel it approaching and do whatever they can to keep it away. And others, don’t have much overwhelm at all - although the people in their lives might be the ones who are bottling up all the pressure, and keeping things under control.
Research from the Mental Health Foundation in the UK showed that of more than 4,500 people surveyed, 74% had felt so stressed they had been overwhelmed or unable to cope. The flow on effects of overwhelm aren’t good for us with respondents reporting they ate too much or unhealthily (46%), started or increased drinking (29%) and started or increased smoking (16%). Psychological effects included feeling depressed (51%) and feeling anxious (61%). Even greater effects like feelings of loneliness, self-harm and suicidal thoughts and feelings have also been reported.
There is no long-term benefit to battling our way through overwhelm. In reality, it’s a sign that something is out of balance and needs to change. What can we do?
First, understand that different things contribute to our overwhelm. Consider if your overwhelm is coming from your emotions, your workload or an overload of information. And it could even be a mix of all three. Then, do these things to help reduce the duration and intensity of overwhelm:
Overwhelm is our body’s way of saying our balance is out. Rather than pushing on through the emotions, workload or information you’re trying to conquer, pause, write things down, and focus on finishing key tasks.
We are highly capable humans, able to change how we respond and how we respond to overwhelm is a perfect example. When we stop doing the things that feed it or increase it, it can recede… just like the flood waters after a deluge. And keep in mind that even if you don’t experience the ‘drowning in it’ feeling of everything being too much, that others in your life, in your family, circle of friends or work colleagues may. Keep an eye out for the rising waters of overwhelm – for your own wellbeing and of those closest to you.
Who is Lynne Cazaly?
Lynne is the author of 'Argh! Too much information, not enough brain: A Practical Guide to Outsmarting Overwhelm' ($29.95), is a speaker and award-winning author on new ways of working. She helps individuals and organisations think and work in ways that are more productive, collaborative, creative and effective. Find out more at www.lynnecazaly.com
This content is the intellectual property of The Coach Place Global and not for distribution or reproduction of any kind. For further detail please refer to our full terms and conditions.