You are not alone! With so many stresses and changes this past year, it can be overwhelming! Here are some coping strategies.

Understand Your Triggers:
What “stuff” causes you to feel overwhelmed? Once you understand your triggers, make the necessary plans to avoid or prepare for them. Start by developing an ideal response to scenarios such as, “If I am put into X situation, then I will respond by doing Y”. Creating an ideal response, in advance, prepares you to cope with each situation when it happens.

Prioritize What Needs to be Done:
Juggling various projects and multi-tasking can be the culprit for feeling overwhelmed. As you start to feel overwhelmed, ask yourself, “What is my main priority?” By setting your priorities, creating an agenda, and doing one thing at a time, you will have a better sense of direction for your day and feel less overwhelmed.

Call a Friend:
When feeling overwhelmed, it is great to have someone willing to listen. This someone can be a counselor, a friend, or a coach. They may help provide support and/or a different perspective on the situation. Also, you may figure it out all by yourself as you talk through it.

Breathe:
Breathing allows you to focus on the positive. Take the time to sit down, relax and/or meditate. Just inhale and exhale slowly and deliberately. Do this until you feel calm and better in control. It really works!