Tag: anxiety

Surviving Overwhelm: Mental Health Tips for Today

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!!!

The Unforeseen Losses That Make Us Pause:

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Honoring Hunter and Carla

Life has a way of jolting us awake when we least expect it. Today as I took my lunch out and opened Facebook, I received heartbreaking news: my dear friend Carla took her own life on Monday, May 12, 2025—the day after Mother’s Day, and only a few months into becoming a grandmother. Just a couple of months ago, my cousin Hunter also died by suicide. Both losses have left me reeling, grappling with sorrow and a profound sense of helplessness.

I cried for Carla, for Hunter, and for the immense pain they must have carried—pain that felt insurmountable, perhaps invisible to those around them. I cried for their families, their friends, and everyone who loved them. Suicide is complex, layered with emotions and circumstances that are often difficult to untangle.

Hunter had struggled, and I imagine he was in immense pain that he felt no one could understand nor help him with. I’m not sure. Suicide is complicated, and I have come to understand that as I have gotten older.

Carla, an incredible friend and beautiful soul, took her life on Monday the 12th, the day after Mother’s Day and only a few months into being a grandma. In both cases, I cried. I cried for the ones closest to them, and I cried knowing how much they both must have hurt to feel as though the only relief they could garner was to make a permanent decision to leave this Earth.

Hunter, Carla, I hope you have peace now that you did not find while you were here with us. You are missed, you will forever be loved, and I hope in talking about your death, all of us can help someone else—make it less of a strain to talk about the hard stuff, make it easier for someone to ask for help.

The Silent Epidemic: Understanding the Scope

Suicide remains a pressing public health issue in the United States. In 2023, over 49,000 people died by suicide—that’s one death every 11 minutes. Additionally, 12.8 million adults seriously thought about suicide, 3.7 million made a plan, and 1.5 million attempted suicide. CDC+1USAFacts+1

These numbers are not just statistics; they represent individuals—friends, family members, colleagues—whose lives were cut short by overwhelming despair.

Breaking the Silence: The Importance of Open Conversations

Mental health struggles often go unnoticed, hidden behind smiles and daily routines. The stigma surrounding mental illness can prevent individuals from seeking help, fearing judgment or misunderstanding. It’s crucial to foster environments where open, honest conversations about mental health are encouraged and supported.

Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provide resources and support for those affected by mental health conditions. By promoting education and understanding, we can create a society where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

Resources: You’re Not Alone

If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available:

Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength. You are not alone, and there are people who care and want to support you.

Honoring Their Memories

In remembering Hunter and Carla, let us commit to being more compassionate, more attentive, and more open. Let’s check in on our loved ones, listen without judgment, and encourage conversations about mental health.

Their lives, though tragically shortened, can inspire us to create a world where mental health is prioritized, and no one feels they have to suffer in silence.

Hunter, Carla, your stories matter. May your memories be a catalyst for change, a reminder of the importance of connection, and a beacon of hope for those still fighting their battles.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out. Help is available, and you are not alone.

Embracing the New Normal: A Wake-Up Call and a Way Forward

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

 No stents. No blockages. Just a second chance I’m not wasting.

I never expected to find myself in a hospital bed, surrounded by machines and uncertainty. One day I was powering through headaches, stress, and fatigue like I always had—and the next, I was in an ambulance, symptoms screaming louder than I could ignore.

The initial tests pointed toward heart failure. Blood pressure was erratic, there was tingling in my arm, nausea, and pain that wouldn’t quit. It was overwhelming and frightening. The doctors moved quickly—every test, every scan—and for a while, it looked serious. Really serious.

But then something happened.

During the heart catheterization, they found no blockages. No need for stents. No angioplasty. Despite the initial fears, my heart was not in failure—it was simply tired, maybe inflamed, but very much intact. Miraculous? Absolutely. But then again, I am my mother’s child.

Now I’m home, and this is my new normal. And I’ve decided I’m not going to waste this wake-up call.

What I’m Doing Differently:

1. Saying Goodbye to Smoking—for Good.
No more half-hearted tries. My heart deserves better. My lungs, my body, my future deserve better. It’s hard, but healing is harder. So I choose prevention now.

2. Moving More, Stressing Less.
I’m not training for a marathon. I’m training for life. Gentle exercise, stretching, walking with purpose—it all counts. I’m also learning to sit still, breathe, and not wear stress like a badge of honor.

3. Eating with Purpose.
I used to eat “pretty well,” but now I’m focused on heart-friendly foods: lower sodium, fewer processed items, more whole foods. It’s not about restriction. It’s about respect—for what my body truly needs.

4. Listening to My Body—Really Listening.
Our bodies talk to us constantly. Mine was whispering, then it screamed. I’m tuning in now. No more pushing through warning signs or normalizing discomfort.

This experience reminded me that life doesn’t always give you loud warnings. Sometimes the signs are subtle until they’re not. So here’s what I want to tell anyone reading this:

Be mindful. Be present. You’re not invincible—but you are capable of changing course before it’s too late. I got a second chance. I’m choosing to take it seriously.

Because life is too precious to sleepwalk through.

It’s the Little Things That Matter

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Life can be overwhelming. We all face challenges that sometimes feel impossible to overcome. Whether it’s the end of a relationship, the loss of a job, or the passing of a loved one, it’s easy to get lost in the weight of our struggles. But here’s the thing: you’ve made it through 100% of the hard days you thought might break you. And you’re still here.

Sometimes, we forget to give ourselves credit for just surviving. Life has a way of throwing curveballs, but no matter what, you’re still standing, reading this, and doing what you can to keep moving forward. That is something worth being proud of.

It’s easy to focus on what’s wrong, what’s missing, or what hasn’t gone right. But if you can, try to shift your attention to the little things—the moments of joy and comfort that we often overlook. Those small acts of self-care that may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things actually mean so much.

So, take a deep breath. You deserve it. Maybe it’s enjoying a cup of coffee or tea in peace. Maybe it’s stepping outside for a few minutes of fresh air. Perhaps it’s treating yourself to something simple, like ordering your favorite meal or watching a show you love. Whatever it is, give yourself permission to enjoy those moments without guilt.

Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish. It’s necessary. The things you do, no matter how small, matter to you. They are reminders of what you’ve endured and what you are capable of. You are allowed to take breaks. You are allowed to rest. You are allowed to find joy in the simple things.

Remember, you can do this. Even on the hardest days, when you feel like you’re just barely holding on, you’re doing better than you think. Don’t forget to be proud of yourself for getting through each moment, each challenge. You are strong, and you deserve to celebrate the small victories.

The journey may not always be easy, but the little things along the way are what can keep you grounded, remind you of your strength, and help you keep moving forward. So take a moment to be proud of yourself, because you’ve earned it. You are here. And that’s enough.

Functional Freeze: How we get unstuck

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized


Understanding Functional Freeze: Its Impact on Mental and Physical Well-Being and How to Break Free


We all experience moments of feeling stuck or unable to move forward, especially when faced with overwhelming stress, uncertainty, or even mundane daily pressures. However, sometimes this feeling becomes more than just a brief moment of hesitation—it can manifest as a state known as functional freeze. This state can have profound effects on our mental and physical health, making it harder to take action and feel motivated. In this post, we’ll explore what functional freeze is, how it affects us, and practical steps to help break free from it.
What is Functional Freeze?
Functional freeze is a psychological and physiological response that often occurs when our brains perceive a threat or challenge, but we feel incapable of dealing with it. It’s a state of immobilization, where we feel stuck in place—unable to move forward, make decisions, or take action. Unlike the more familiar fight-or-flight response, freeze often leads to an overall sense of stagnation rather than heightened energy.
This freeze response can be triggered by any number of factors, such as:
Overwhelm from too many tasks or responsibilities
Uncertainty or fear about the future
A traumatic or emotional event that leaves you feeling paralyzed
Anxiety or depression that creates a mental block
How Functional Freeze Affects Us
Mentally: When we experience functional freeze, our minds can become foggy, and decision-making becomes increasingly difficult. We may ruminate on problems without being able to take constructive steps to address them. This mental paralysis can also fuel anxiety and self-doubt, making us question our abilities and decisions.
Physically: On a physical level, functional freeze often results in a lack of energy or motivation. You might feel exhausted even though you haven’t done anything strenuous. This leads to a cycle of inactivity that further exacerbates feelings of helplessness or frustration. Long-term, the freeze response can also affect sleep patterns, appetite, and overall health, making it harder for your body to recover from stress.
Steps to Break Free from Functional Freeze
Acknowledge and Accept
The first step to overcoming functional freeze is acknowledging it without judgment. Recognizing that you’re in a freeze state can reduce the shame or frustration that often accompanies it. It’s important to remind yourself that this is a natural response, not a personal failure.


Start Small
When overwhelmed, the sheer scale of tasks can seem impossible. Begin by breaking things down into smaller, manageable pieces. Focus on completing a small, easy task that you know you can accomplish. The act of doing something, no matter how small, will trigger a sense of accomplishment and help you gain momentum.


Mindful Movement
Physical movement can help “reset” the body and break the freeze cycle. This doesn’t have to mean a strenuous workout—gentle stretching, yoga, or even a short walk can help release tension and get your blood flowing. Movement stimulates the release of dopamine and serotonin, which can help shift your mood and energy levels.


Limit Distractions and Create a Routine
Creating structure can reduce feelings of chaos and uncertainty. Try setting a simple daily routine to provide some sense of control. Focus on one task at a time, and eliminate unnecessary distractions (like excessive phone use or social media) that can increase feelings of overwhelm.


Talk to Someone
Sometimes, the best way to snap out of functional freeze is by talking it out. Find a friend, family member, or therapist to express how you’re feeling. Speaking about your thoughts can provide clarity, help you process emotions, and even offer new perspectives on your situation.


Practice Self-Compassion
Don’t be hard on yourself if you’re feeling stuck. Functional freeze doesn’t mean you’re lazy or incapable—it’s simply a natural response to stress. Give yourself grace, and understand that breaking free from this state is a process. Be patient with yourself as you take small steps toward recovery.


Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you find that functional freeze is affecting your day-to-day life for an extended period of time, it may be helpful to talk to a mental health professional. Therapy can provide you with tools to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as help you address the root causes of your freeze response.


Final Thoughts
Functional freeze is a challenging state that many of us face at different points in our lives. While it can feel isolating and overwhelming, it’s important to remember that there are ways to break free. By acknowledging the freeze, taking small actions, and practicing self-care, you can regain your sense of control and start moving forward again—mentally, physically, and emotionally.
If you’re currently in a freeze state, take a deep breath, and remember: You are not alone, and you have the power to move past this.