It’s easy to call it normal, but feeling overwhelmed can take a toll on your mental well-being.
Considering these challenging times, peace of mind has become a luxury for most people. And while working from home, gives you control and flexibility, it’s still possible to feel stressed out. As the lines between work and life begin to blur, your emotional baggage gets heavier and heavier.
One thing’s for sure, you are not alone. According to an article by the American Psychological Association last February this year, at least 47% of adults in the country are experiencing anxiety while 44% are experiencing sadness.
On top of that, the International Labor Organization notes that the pandemic has led to increased workloads, longer shifts, and fewer opportunities for rest. Added to that is the threat of the virus itself and the economic disruption it brings.
All of this explains why you are feeling overwhelmed most of the time. But while legislators and employers continue to look for ways to reduce the pandemic’s impact on mental wellness, we can find ways to cope with daily life and perform well without the risk of burning out.
1. Take a break when you need to
This seems like a no-brainer, but if you are working remotely, you could be forcing yourself to become productive. As much as you want to take your job seriously, you need to observe self-care. Take a breather after a long day and make time for the things you want to do. In these uncertain times, your emotional needs are a priority.
2. Manage your expectations
Feeling overwhelmed often follows an attempt to control the things we can’t control. And the more we think about it, the more miserable we become. Accepting things as they are is not an admission of defeat. Far from it. By managing your expectations you will feel more at peace and take things lightly. If you are stressed out because you can’t deliver what’s expected of you, let it go and move on to other things.
3. Track your emotions with a journal
It always helps if you can unload all your frustrations on paper. It won’t help if you allow these feelings to ball up and accumulate. Express yourself through writing or you can try doodling. Whatever helps you relax and vent out your feelings is crucial to your mental wellness
4. Have someone to talk to
There is no shame in admitting that you need a shoulder to cry on. Whether you are a teacher who is struggling with managing online classes or a law enforcer, talking about your feelings to a person you can trust is a great way to attain peace of mind. With that being said, make it a habit each day to call your loved ones or friends and let them know what you are feeling. If you are constantly overwhelmed, you can always talk to a mental health specialist, who can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by work and personal issues in these difficult times, you can always find a way to overcome this sense of helplessness that you are feeling.
At Mid Cities Psychiatry, we strive to help patients deal with the anxiety and stress caused by this current health disruption. Our goal is not only to treat mental conditions but also a chart a way forward toward better mental health.
Give us a call today to learn more about our services.