When it Sometimes Feels Like It’s Too Much

Life can be overwhelming at times. Sometimes, it gets to the point where it feels like it’s too much. I for one have definitely felt this way sometimes.

4 years. In an instant my life changed forever. There have been moments of overwhelm, despair and anxiety. There have also been moments of joy, excitement and happiness.

When it feels like it’s too much

The moments where things become overwhelming are just that. Moments. My mindfulness practice taught me so many valuable things that have helped me during these times.

The first important lesson: the universality of suffering. Everyone experiences moments of suffering in their life. What’s too much for one person might be manageable for someone else. Each person is different in their level and tolerance for suffering. But we all experience pain of some kind. It’s how we respond to these moments that determine if that pain becomes suffering.

The other lesson I learned: impermanence. Each moment is changing. One moment is different from the next. The moment before has gone. We only have this moment.

The mindset of impermanence can be helpful in times of distress. Knowing that this moment won’t last forever and that the next moment will be different.

Just because this moment is tough, doesn’t mean that the next one will be as well.

So what can you do?

I have some BAD days. I still have some. I get anxious. Sometimes a little depressed. While there is no obvious trigger, there is an underlying one that I am more than aware of.

When life feels like it’s too much, what can you do? Mindfulness is one way to help with feelings of stress and anxiety. It’s helped me for sure.

At times though, mindfulness might not be enough. What if this present moment is too much? When I have these moments, I find someone to talk to. A friend or a loved one can be so helpful to talk to. Sometimes though, we need a little more. I have and I am currently seeing a social worker. When the anxiety and the stress get to be overwhelming it helps to speak to a trained professional. They can work with you to get the help that you need.

On January 25, Bell has their annual Let’s Talk event. Every time you talk, text and join in on social media using the #BellLetsTalk on January 25, Bell will donate 5¢ more to mental health initiatives. The hope is to raise money, to reduce the stigma, and to get people talking.

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