Do you ever feel yourself holding on to your last bit of patience when you’re not even upset or angry about something? You may be overstimulated. In other words, your brain feels like it has 50 tabs open simultaneously, which can be overwhelming and frustrating.
Whether you go to work full-time or are a stay-at-home parent, there are a few creative ways to sneak downtime into your schedule. So if you feel yourself wanting to wear earplugs just to hear yourself think, keep reading.
This article explores a few ways to cope with feeling overstimulated as a mom.
Use humor.
Not only does laughter relieve stress, but it's good for you. Whether you watch a comedy or get on all fours and snort like a pig with your kids, humor is a surefire way to diffuse a stressed-out parent.
The following tips and strategies can help you manage high-stress situations and moments in everyday life. You'll feel more in control and manage stress healthily, and your kids may even pick up on a few strategies.
Identify your warning signs and triggers.
We all have them. Take some time to consider your boundaries and limitations. Is it non-stop interaction with your kids? Or maybe you can tolerate the loud noises and voices, but seeing their clutter on the floor sends you over the edge. What would be an ideal solution to this problem? It may be hiring a babysitter or asking a relative to swing by once in a while.
Prioritize your downtime.
Like you would plug in your phone at the end of the day, you also need time to recharge. Consider setting your alarm an hour earlier in the morning. This may be an option for parents whose kids sleep throughout the night. You'd be surprised how much difference having that quiet hour makes before the day starts rolling. Read a good book, have a mindful moment while making your morning coffee, or get a jump start on your day. It may be the recharge your body and mind were looking for.
Try meditation.
You've heard this advice before; experts recommend meditation during your downtime. Not only does it decrease your overall stimulation, but it also teaches you how to relax in overwhelming and stressful situations. According to experts, meditation trains the body to have a specific response whenever you close your eyes. You can quiet the mind by taking a few moments to calm and focus your breathing.
Simplify your to-do list.
At the beginning of the day, consider the things that will take up more of your energy and list those at the top. Schedule small breaks in between. For example, one trip to the grocery store might be a manageable task if it's your only significant errand. Be sure to have some downtime for everyone when you return home. The same idea applies to vacations and traveling. If you're able, try to schedule a day before or after your trip. This will give everyone time to relax and transition instead of jumping back into their day-to-day responsibilities.
Streamline decision-making.
We all suffer from decision-making fatigue on some days, and it's almost too easy to obsess over every decision's pros and cons. if you're an HSP, you may get incredibly overwhelmed, whether it's about what to make for dinner tonight or deciding on your child's first daycare.
Establish a routine.
Routines can help you preserve your energy and time in making small, daily decisions. Ensure that this time isn't scheduled immediately after a stressful event or overwhelming task. For the more significant findings, experts suggest considering your options. If you find that making big decisions is overwhelming, experts recommend asking yourself, 'how bad can it be to make the wrong choice’? 99% of decisions could be better. However, you can always choose another daycare, for example, if the one you decided on feels off.
Take a step back.
During those unavoidable times when every aspect of your family life seems out of control, and you feel more on edge or irritable, taking a step back and using relaxation techniques is crucial. Experts recommend taking a moment to close your eyes and inhaling for five seconds, holding it for five seconds, and exhaling for five seconds. Next, look at your environment. Can you turn down the lights or eliminate any unnecessary sounds? If your kids are old enough to be home alone, communicate your need to rest. Or, if another adult is home, go outside. Nature can be incredibly calming and beneficial. Plus, it’s good for your physical and mental well-being.
Begin Counseling for Moms in Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, and Louisiana
It's normal to experience complete exhaustion when your body hasn't had a moment to rest. If you're having a difficult time, consider contacting a therapist for online counseling. I would be honored to support you in feeling rejuvenated and restored. I’m happy to support you across Colorado, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Florida. To start your therapy journey, please follow these simple steps:
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation via phone or video
Start learning new techniques to cope with overstimulation
Other Services Offered With Ashley Comegys
Counseling for moms isn’t the only service I offer for the residents of Colorado, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Florida. I’m happy to offer a variety of services in support of your mental health. Other services offered include grief counseling, online postpartum depression treatment, online postpartum support, and online depression treatment. I’m also happy to offer military spouse therapy, and online trauma treatment for women. Visit my blog or about page to learn more today!