How Can I Take Back Control of My Life and Cope With Feelings of Overwhelm and Anxiety?

Dear eNotAlone: I'm barely holding it together. I feel like I'm going crazy. Every thought in my head is spiraling out of control—it's like a hurricane of emotion, stress, and anxiety.

I have a demanding job, and I'm being expected to do more and more. I'm on the brink of burnout, overworked, and exhausted. I feel powerless to make the changes that need to happen, and I don't know what to do. No matter how hard I seem to try, I can't seem to take back control of my life.

My friends keep telling me to "calm down", but it's like I'm a prisoner to this overwhelming pressure with no way to escape. I'm caught in between feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and bitter about the situation, and still finding it in myself to put in the hard work.

I don't want to give up, but at the same time, I need to find a way to cope and get some traction back in my life. How do I do that? I need advice - and I need it soon!

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It's completely understandable to be overwhelmed, and it's important to remember that you are not alone in feeling this way. Many people have been in your position and have found ways to manage it. That doesn't mean that your feelings and concerns don't count too. They do.

So let's talk about practical solutions that can help you take back control of your life and gain some much-needed traction. Here are a few tips to get you started:

First, take a step back and assess the big picture. It can be tempting to focus on the one, immediate issue that has you feeling stressed, but it's important to look at the whole picture so you can address the root of what's really causing you to feel stress and overwhelm. Remember, it's ok to take it slow and small steps are still helpful.

Second, develop healthy coping mechanisms. This might include talking to trusted friends or family members, taking some time for yourself through hobbies or activities, exercising, or journaling. Anything that reduces stress and provides you with perspective can help.

Third, establish boundaries. Taking on too much is one of the most common causes of overwhelm, so set reasonable limits for yourself, including when it comes to the demands of your job or other commitments. Don't be afraid to say "no" – sometimes that's just what you need to do.

Remember to take a break. Give yourself permission to relax and recharge. It's ok if you need to step away from the situation for a little while so you can gain some fresh perspective and make better decisions.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. With these tips, you can start to reclaim control of your life and begin to manage the overwhelm and anxiety. And don't forget – you don't have to do it alone. Reaching out for support can make all the difference, so seek out friends and professionals who can provide the help and guidance you need to get through this difficult time.