Surviving Overwhelm: Mental Health Tips for Today

September 23, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Coping With Mental Health in Trying Times: Surviving the Storm When Everything Feels Overwhelming

There are moments in life when it feels like the weight of the world is pressing down on you. The kind of moments where everything seems to be stacking up—the bills are piling high, school is back in session, and the news feels like a relentless wave of tragedy. The pressure builds, leaving you running on fumes, emotionally drained, and unsure of how much more you can take.

Right now, many of us are living through a perfect storm of challenges. The reality of rising costs, personal responsibilities, and the heavy weight of constant bad news can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and even numb. If you feel like you’re just taking it day by day, doing your best to survive, you’re not alone. And while these times are undeniably difficult, there are ways to cope, find balance, and regain a sense of peace. Here are some strategies to help you navigate the mental strain of living through these trying times in America.

1. Acknowledge the Reality of What You’re Feeling

One of the hardest parts of mental strain is the guilt that often comes with it. We’ve been conditioned to push through, to “keep going” no matter what. But it’s okay to not be okay. When life is overwhelming, acknowledging your feelings is the first step toward healing. Whether you’re angry, scared, numb, or sad, allow yourself the space to sit with those emotions without judgment. You don’t have to be “better” or “stronger” every single moment.

When you name your emotions, you take the first step toward regaining control. Feeling overwhelmed is a natural response to these challenging times, but it doesn’t define you. By validating your emotions, you allow yourself permission to cope, heal, and move forward.

2. Practice Radical Self-Care (Yes, It’s Important!)

Self-care has become a buzzword in recent years, but it’s not just about face masks and bubble baths—it’s about setting boundaries and prioritizing your mental and physical health. In times of stress, it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself, but the reality is that without a solid foundation, it’s harder to weather the storms of life.

Start with small, achievable acts of self-care that nourish your body and mind. This could mean:

Sleep: Rest is non-negotiable. When you’re running on empty, a solid night’s sleep is essential for emotional and mental recovery.
Nutrition: Eat nourishing foods that give your body the energy it needs to tackle the day, even if it’s just a balanced snack.
Movement: Whether it’s a walk, yoga, or a dance party in your living room, moving your body can release stress and elevate your mood.
Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness or meditation, even if it’s just five minutes of deep breathing. The present moment is all we have, and grounding yourself can offer some much-needed relief.

3. Limit Your Media Consumption

It can feel like the world is burning down when you’re constantly glued to the news. From national tragedies to political chaos, the media can feel overwhelming and relentless. While staying informed is important, there’s a fine line between being aware and being consumed by it.

Consider setting boundaries on how much news you consume daily, and make time for things that uplift you. Try a digital detox—take a day off from social media, limit your news intake, and focus on things that bring you joy, whether that’s reading a book, spending time with loved ones, or enjoying nature.

4. Reevaluate Your Priorities

When life feels like it’s in constant crisis mode, it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of work, school, finances, and responsibilities. But sometimes, it’s important to step back and ask yourself: What’s really important right now?

Can you delegate some tasks to make life a little less overwhelming?
Are there things you can let go of, even temporarily, to give yourself space to breathe?
Do you have the energy to take on everything on your plate right now, or is it okay to ask for help?

Setting boundaries around your time and energy is not only okay—it’s necessary. Whether it’s saying “no” to an extra project at work or asking a friend or family member for help with errands, reclaiming your personal time is essential for mental health.

5. Find Support in Your Community

You don’t have to go through tough times alone. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a support group, or a therapist, talking about your feelings can help you feel seen, heard, and less isolated. Sharing the burden with others, even if it’s just a text or a phone call, can make a world of difference.

If you’re not already, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Therapists and counselors are trained to help you navigate difficult emotions and offer tools for coping. Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a way to strengthen your resilience and build healthy coping mechanisms for the future.

6. Focus on What You Can Control

In times of chaos, focusing on the things you can control helps to ground you. You may not be able to change the headlines or the world’s circumstances, but you can take control of how you respond.

Maybe that means focusing on your daily routine, budgeting your finances, or creating small, achievable goals. When things feel out of control, taking one step at a time toward something you can manage brings back a sense of agency.

7. Find Purpose in the Chaos

It’s easy to feel lost and overwhelmed when things are falling apart around you. But sometimes, finding a sense of purpose can bring clarity. This might mean reconnecting with your passions, getting involved in your community, or finding new ways to help others.

When we’re able to focus on something larger than ourselves, it can put the stresses of life into perspective. Helping others or contributing to a cause can also bring a sense of fulfillment and connection that’s hard to find in times of isolation.

8. Remember, You’re Not Alone

Living in America right now can feel uniquely stressful—whether it’s economic struggles, political tensions, or social upheaval, the strain can feel heavy. But in these moments, remember: You are not alone. Millions of people are navigating these same challenges, even if it doesn’t always feel like it. It’s okay to lean on others, to ask for help, and to give yourself the grace you need to heal.

In these tough times, survival might look different for each of us. It might mean focusing on day-to-day coping strategies, seeking therapy, or simply taking a break from the news. Whatever your journey looks like, remember that it’s okay to not have all the answers, and it’s okay to take things one step at a time.

Conclusion: Keep Going, One Day at a Time

The light at the end of the tunnel may seem dim right now, but it is there, even if it’s hard to see. Each day you keep going is a victory. You’re doing your best, and that’s all you can do. Be kind to yourself. Take small steps to care for your mental health, and remember that it’s okay to seek support. In trying times, surviving isn’t just about enduring—it’s about finding ways to thrive, no matter how small those steps may seem.

If you’re struggling, know that there is help, and there is hope. Keep pushing forward, and know that brighter days are ahead.

love and light y’all!!!

Walking My Daughter Down the Aisle: A Parental Perspective

September 15, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Walking My Daughter Down the Aisle – With My Heart in My Hands

This past weekend, I had the honor – and the heartache – of watching my daughter get married. If I’m honest, I’m still trying to sort through the wave of emotions that swept over me. Pride, joy, sadness, nostalgia, relief… they all tangled together, sometimes knocking me off balance. It wasn’t just my own feelings, either. Weddings stir up emotions for everyone, and I found myself carrying not only my own heart but also helping manage the hearts of others around me.

Her biological father wasn’t there. That relationship ended long ago and with it, the possibility of his presence on this day. Instead, her big brother stepped up, handsome and steady, to walk his little sister down the aisle. Watching him place her hand into her groom’s brought tears to my eyes — not just for what was missing, but for the love and loyalty that was so beautifully present.

She missed her grandparents, too. There was a quiet ache where they should have been. The reception had a small wall piece honoring those no longer with us, which was both touching and bittersweet. And yes, there were others who weren’t there — for different reasons — and that stung. But we didn’t let the sadness linger long. This was, above all else, a celebration of love.

And what a celebration it was.

From the vintage two-tone blue Ford pickup pulling the wedding party out to the field by the pond, to the arch set up at the water’s edge — it was a scene straight out of Pinterest. My baby girl, the bride, was radiant. The wedding party looked lovely, the ceremony was short and sweet, and the photos seemed endless (but wonderful).

As the evening moved on, laughter, joy, and love filled the air. It was a day built of memories, both tender and joyful.

But as any parent knows, weddings are more than just events. They’re milestones. They’re turning points. And when I got back in the car to drive away, the tears came again.

Because while I am proud beyond words of the life my daughter has built, of the work she does, of the charming little town she calls home, and the wonderful support system she has around her… I am also sad. Sad because she’s far away. Sad because no matter how grown up she is, she will always be my baby.

I suppose that’s the paradox of parenthood: bursting with pride while your heart aches with longing. Relieved she is loved and cared for, yet still wishing you could keep her close.

So how did I get through it? I’m not sure I have a tidy answer. I breathed. I cried. I smiled until my face hurt. I carried others when I could, and leaned on my own strength when I had to. Mostly, I let myself feel it all — the pride, the sadness, the joy, the overwhelm, and the pieces I can’t even find words for.

Because that’s love. Messy, overwhelming, breathtaking love.

And as I continue learning how to let go while holding on, I carry one truth with me: Mom is always here. Always.

The Power of Empathy: Finding Hope Amidst Suffering

September 9, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Is it just me?

Cautiously Optimistic: Navigating the Weight of Others’ Pain

I’ve often described myself as a cautiously optimistic person. It’s a way of being that helps me face the challenges of life with hope but without completely abandoning my awareness of how fragile things can be. I try to hold on to the belief that things will get better, that there is light at the end of every dark tunnel. Yet, beneath this cautious optimism is something much deeper—an empathy that can feel all-consuming. I feel everything, and when I say everything, I mean everything.

It’s as if my heart is finely attuned to the pain of the world. When I see someone struggling, whether it’s a close friend or a stranger, I feel their burden. I feel their sadness, their frustration, their fear. It’s hard to explain to those who don’t share this experience, but it’s almost as if I can physically feel their emotions in my own body. And with this heightened sense of empathy comes a natural desire to help. If I’m in, I’m all in. When someone I care about is hurting, I will do everything within my power to ease their pain. But here’s where the challenge lies: No matter how much I want to help, no matter how deeply I feel their suffering, I can’t fix everything.

And that’s the part that has become so difficult. Everywhere I go, I see people struggling. Whether it’s a friend facing a personal crisis, a family member dealing with loss, or a stranger encountering hardships I’ll never fully understand, it feels like there is a constant presence of pain in the world. It’s overwhelming at times. And as much as I want to be there for everyone, as much as I want to ease their suffering and show them that they are not alone, I feel a sense of helplessness that gnaws at me.

I think the hardest part is that the more I care, the more I absorb. I can’t turn off my empathy. When someone is hurting, I can’t just ignore it or pretend it doesn’t affect me. So, I carry these burdens with me. I hold space for others’ pain even when I have nothing left to give. This emotional weight becomes part of my daily existence, and sometimes, it feels like it’s a battle to simply get through the day without being overwhelmed.

Coping has become a process—a continuous, daily, and sometimes hourly, practice. I’ve learned to breathe through moments of heaviness, to step back and remind myself that it’s okay not to have all the answers. I’ve had to accept that my capacity to help is limited, that sometimes, the best thing I can offer is simply my presence, my listening ear, and my unwavering support. But that doesn’t always feel like enough. I want to do more—to take away the pain, to find a solution, to make it all better. The frustration of knowing that I can’t is, at times, unbearable.

But as I reflect on these feelings, I realize that my cautious optimism isn’t about ignoring the pain or pretending that everything is fine. It’s about holding space for hope, even in the face of suffering. It’s about recognizing that while I may not have the power to fix everything, I do have the ability to show up, to care, and to be a source of light in the lives of others.

The truth is, I may never be able to ease all of the burdens that I see around me, and that’s something I have to come to terms with. But I also believe that even the smallest acts of kindness, empathy, and support can make a difference. They may not erase the pain, but they can help carry it for a little while. And maybe, just maybe, that’s enough.

So, I’ll continue to navigate the world with this cautious optimism—holding space for the pain I encounter, but also holding space for the hope that one day, things will get better. I’ll keep doing what I can, even when it feels like it’s not enough, because I know that the journey of healing is a shared one. We may not always have the power to solve each other’s problems, but we can always choose to walk alongside each other, offering empathy, understanding, and love. And in the end, maybe that’s the most important thing we can do.

The ABCs of Mental Health: Small Changes for Big Impact

September 8, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Focusing on What We Can Control

Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when we face challenges that are outside of our control. Worrying about the “what ifs” can keep us stuck, anxious, and drained. But when it comes to our mental health, one of the most powerful lessons we can learn is this:

Peace of mind comes when we focus on what we can control and let go of what we cannot.

The ABCs of mental health remind us that there are practical areas of our lives we can manage—daily choices that influence how we feel, how we cope, and how we show up for ourselves and others.

Let’s walk through some of the most important ones:

A – Awareness of What We Consume

We may not be able to control every thought that crosses our mind or every stressor that shows up in our day, but we can control what we allow into our bodies and minds.

Food: What we eat impacts not just our physical health but also our mental clarity and mood. A balanced diet rich in whole foods, water, fruits, and vegetables helps stabilize energy and emotions.
Media: What we consume online matters. Too much negative news or endless scrolling can fuel anxiety. Setting boundaries around social media and media consumption is a healthy choice we do control.

Being intentional with consumption—whether food, information, or energy—gives us strength and clarity.

B – Balance in Finances

Money is one of the leading causes of stress for individuals and families. While we cannot always control unexpected expenses or the economy, we can control how we spend, save, and plan.

Create a budget that supports your goals instead of drains your paycheck.
Choose mindful spending habits—distinguish between needs and wants.
Build an emergency fund, even if it’s just a small step at a time.

Financial peace doesn’t come from being wealthy—it comes from being intentional with the resources we already have.

C – Care Through Movement

Our bodies are designed to move. Exercise isn’t just about physical appearance; it is one of the most powerful tools we have for boosting mental health.

A brisk walk can clear your mind.
Stretching can release tension from stress.
Strength training or yoga can rebuild confidence and resilience.

We may not control every health diagnosis or physical limitation, but we can choose to move our bodies in ways that nourish us.

D – Deep Rest and Sleep

Sleep is often overlooked, yet it is vital for mental health. Yes, sometimes our minds race and rest feels hard to come by, but we can take steps to create a healthier sleep environment.

Stick to a regular sleep schedule.
Limit screens before bedtime.
Create a calming routine with reading, prayer, or meditation.
Keep your room cool, dark, and quiet.

We may not always control when sleep comes easily, but we can build habits that make rest more likely.

Letting Go Brings Freedom

When we shift our energy toward what we can influence, we take back power that stress and anxiety try to steal. The truth is:

We can’t control every circumstance.
We can’t control the choices of others.
We can’t control the unexpected.

But we can control how we respond, what we prioritize, and the daily actions that nurture our body, mind, and spirit.

And when we let go of what we cannot control, we make room for peace of mind, resilience, and growth.

✅ Your challenge this week: Pick just one area—food, finances, exercise, or sleep—and make a small but intentional change. Remember, it’s not about perfection. It’s about progress, awareness, and focusing on the ABCs of what truly matters.

Suicide Prevention Month: Honoring Lives and Spreading Hope

September 2, 2025 by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Honoring Carla, Hunter, and Holding on to Hope

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to shine light into the shadows and remind one another that every life matters. For me, this month is personal. Too personal.

Just this May, my friend Carla made the choice to leave this world. She had only just become a grandmother, a role I know would have filled her with joy. Carla’s smile beamed, her laugh was unforgettable, and she adored her children—kids the same ages as three of mine. To learn that she had taken her own life stopped me in my tracks.

My first thought was: My God, the pain must have been so immense for her to leave behind her beautiful little family. Whatever she was carrying must have hurt so deeply that leaving felt like her only escape. That thought still breaks me.

And Carla’s loss is not the only one close to my heart. Earlier this year, my family also said goodbye to Hunter, who lost his battle with his own thoughts. Two lives gone too soon. Two families left to navigate unimaginable grief.

Suicide prevention is not just a cause on a calendar for me—it is a daily prayer, a constant thought. I carry it not only for Carla and for Hunter, but also for my own child who has struggled. When you’ve looked into the eyes of someone you love and wondered if they’ll still be here tomorrow, suicide prevention becomes your heartbeat.

That’s why checking in on people matters so much. Sometimes we assume that because someone is smiling, laughing, or surrounded by loved ones, they must be okay. Carla looked like she had so much to live for. Hunter had so much life ahead of him. And yet, their battles were invisible to most of us. A simple text, a phone call, a coffee together—it might not “fix” everything, but it could remind someone they are not alone in their darkness.

I also hope for families left behind that practical things—like having a will, leaving clear instructions, or having life insurance in place—can ease some of the burden. Not because it takes away the grief, but because it provides breathing room in the middle of heartbreak.

But more than anything, I hope we all keep talking, keep listening, and keep showing up for one another. Because silence can be deadly, but compassion can save lives.

If you are struggling—or if someone you love is—please know this: there is help, and there is hope.

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 in the U.S.
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor, available 24/7.
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1.

For Carla, I pray she has found peace. For Hunter, I pray he knows how deeply he is loved. For my child—and for every person fighting silent battles—I pray you remember that your story is not over yet.

Because your smile, your laugh, your love—you matter. Always. ❤ Julie