Stress vs. Overwhelm

Did you know there are two different types of stress? There is good stress and bad stress. Good stress, called eustress, can motivate you, increase focus, and can ultimately increase performance along with other benefits. You’re functioning in good stress if you have the feeling you want to perform well or if the stressor you're facing feels like it’s an opportunity to do well. What we need to be aware of is when that good stress turns into chronic stress or extreme levels of stress. We often call this overwhelm which means we are in such a level of stress that emotionally and cognitively we feel like we can’t even properly function. Brene Brown, a prominent researcher, does a good job explaining the difference between stress and overwhelm with the following quote from her book, “Atlas of the Heart,”:

"When we're stressed we feel a lot of outside, or even internal, pressure. But we can handle it. We know what actions to take to fix it. We can logistically and emotionally take on these actions even if we're concerned about how much time and effort they'll take. Overwhelm on the other hand means we're incapable of taking action. We're so consumed by the pressures on us that we can't do anything about it. Overwhelm means an extreme level of stress and emotional or cognitive intensity to the point of feeling unable to function." - Brene Brown

While a good level of stress can feel motivating, our bodies have physical reactions to stress regardless, including: sweat, increased heart rate, low levels of anxiety, and feeling on edge. Feelings of overwhelm and chronic stress can cause serious health concerns including: chronic fatigue, stomach pains, chest pain, insomnia, getting sick often, decreased sex drive, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, heart attacks, abnormal periods, acne, hair loss, shaking, general anxiety, forgetfulness, decreased or increased appetite, and coping with substances. Ultimately the best way to address overwhelm is to manage your daily stressors and make sure they don’t turn into chronic stress. Here are a few ways to address the different types of stress.

Managing daily stress

• Make a to do list

• Prioritize 

• Fuel your body & mind to accomplish the task and stressors

• Make time for movement and taking care of your body

• Delegate task if you can

• Incorporate relaxation techniques and mindfulness

• Reward yourself after you accomplish your tasks

Ways to address overwhelm

• Start by managing your daily stressors in a healthy way

•  Being proactive not only reactive.

• Take a step back

• Saying “No” and setting boundaries will do wonders.

• Rest

• Take a sick day if needed. Let’s normalize mental health days too.

• Telling others what you need and accepting their help

• Accept what you can’t change and adjust your expectations

• Once the storm settles reflect on what lifestyle changes could be made to keep overwhelm at bay