Overwhelmed

Suffocation is an analogy equated often with the feeling of being overwhelmed. No wonder it can be so paralyzing.

Feeling overwhelmed leads to poor productivity, stress, emotional upheaval and, anger, helplessness and panic attacks, with possible symptoms of rapid heartbeat, sweating, chest pain and shortness of breath.

Strategies to help alleviate feeling overwhelmed include:

• Accept the anxiety and, “Think of acceptance as riding out a wave.”

• Replace unrealistic or unreasonable thoughts with helpful thoughts: “I know I’m feeling overwhelmed right now, but if I take a break, I may feel differently about this when I return.”

• Breathe. Deep breathing as well as guided imagery, tai chi and yoga can lead to a more relaxed mind and body.

• Take a break from overwhelming activity; listen to music, read a book or take a walk, for example.

Because being overwhelmed is especially detrimental in a work 

environment -

• Schedule an exercise break.

• Delegate: “… ask colleagues and friends for help. They’ll give you the chance to return the favor sometime.”

• Write stuff down as lists or in a journal; tasks and schedules often become more manageable in writing versus trying to keep track mentally.

Drink plenty of water, chart progress and stay organized.