What Does It Mean to Feel Overwhelmed? Do we really need it ?

Do you feel like you have so much going on that you’re struggling to cope with it all? Or, are you going through something stressful that’s making it difficult for you to function? These are some of the signs of being overwhelmed.

When overwhelmed, a person is flooded by thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations — often related to a specific problem — that can be difficult for them to manage, says Sabrina Romanoff, PsyD, a clinical psychologist and professor at Yeshiva University.

Everyone feels overwhelmed from time to time and it is a completely normal response to everyday stressors, says Dr. Romanoff. Stress can sometimes be helpful, because it fires up your system and helps you be more productive.1 However, being chronically stressed out and constantly feeling overwhelmed can take a toll on your mental and physical health.2

The symptoms and causes of feeling overwhelmed, as well as some coping strategies that may be helpful.

Signs and Symptoms of Being Overwhelmed

These are some of the signs that you’re overwhelmed, according to Dr. Romanoff:

• Irrational thoughts: You may struggle to think rationally, which can make…