Feeling Overwhelmed: A Common Experience for Women and How to Manage It
Feeling Overwhelmed: A Common Experience for Women and How to Manage It
In a fast-paced world full of expectations, obligations, and unforeseen challenges, it's no surprise that feelings of overwhelm have become an all-too-common experience for many women.
Whether it's juggling career demands, taking care of children, managing households, or maintaining relationships, the weight of modern life can feel crushing.
This feeling of being overwhelmed often results from the sheer number of roles women are expected to play, leaving little time or space for self-care and mental recuperation. But while feeling overwhelmed may be common, it is not insurmountable.
What Does It Mean to Feel Overwhelmed?
When we say someone is overwhelmed, we’re describing a state in which they feel emotionally or mentally overloaded.
The brain struggles to process and cope with the constant stimuli and demands, leading to stress, anxiety, and sometimes even physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, or insomnia.
It's not just a feeling of being busy—it's when the pressure becomes so intense that the person can no longer effectively manage their emotions or responsibilities.
Overwhelm can result in the feeling of "drowning" in tasks or expectations.
A Real-Life Perspective: What Women Are Facing
For many women, the sensation of being overwhelmed is deeply rooted in their lived experiences. According to a 2020 study by the American Psychological Association, 34% of women report feeling overwhelmed most of the time, as opposed to only 22% of men. But why is this so? Let’s explore some common stressors faced by women:
1. The Working Mother Conundrum
Women who juggle full-time careers with motherhood are perhaps the quintessential example of feeling overwhelmed. Jane, a 35-year-old marketing executive, is a prime example.
Every day, she gets her kids ready for school, navigates her 9-to-5 job, and returns home to help with homework and prepare dinner. There’s barely any time for herself, let alone the mental and emotional space to decompress.
"By the time I finish everything, it’s already 9 PM, and I’m too tired to even read a book," Jane says. This isn’t an isolated scenario. In 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 70% of women with children under 18 were working outside the home. Combine this with societal expectations around motherhood, and it’s clear why so many women feel stretched too thin.
2. Unrealistic Societal Standards
Social media exacerbates feelings of overwhelm by perpetuating unrealistic standards. Women are constantly bombarded with images of the "ideal life"—immaculate homes, perfectly styled outfits, and Pinterest-worthy meals. It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that everyone else has it all together.
Samantha, a 28-year-old entrepreneur, struggles with this often. "I’m running a business, but I see women on Instagram effortlessly balancing fitness, friendships, cooking gourmet meals, and I feel like I’m failing," she admits.
This comparison culture can lead to a sense of inadequacy and heighten feelings of overwhelm, as women try to meet impossible expectations.
3. The Invisible Labor Load
Another significant stressor is what’s known as "invisible labor." Women, even those in egalitarian households, often bear the mental load of keeping everything running smoothly. This includes remembering to book doctor’s appointments, keeping track of school events, or ensuring the pantry is stocked. It’s the emotional labor of managing a household, even when both partners work full-time.
Marie, a 40-year-old mother of two, explains, "My husband helps out a lot, but I’m always the one who remembers that we need milk or that the kids have dentist appointments next week. It’s this never-ending mental to-do list."
How to Manage Overwhelm: Practical Strategies
If you resonate with any of these stories, know that you’re not alone. Managing feelings of overwhelm is an ongoing process, but there are steps you can take to regain control and prevent burnout.
1. Prioritize and Delegate
One of the most effective strategies to combat overwhelm is learning how to prioritize and delegate. Not every task on your list needs to be done immediately, nor does every responsibility need to be handled by you. Sit down, list your tasks, and categorize them into "urgent," "important," and "can wait." This mental clarity helps alleviate the panic of trying to do everything at once.
Delegation is just as important. Let go of the notion that you must do everything yourself. If you live with a partner or family members, create a shared responsibility system. If it’s possible within your budget, consider outsourcing tasks like cleaning or grocery delivery.
2. Set Boundaries
Saying "no" can feel uncomfortable, but it’s a powerful tool in managing overwhelm. Whether it’s turning down extra work projects, declining social events, or setting limits with family, boundaries are essential. Women are often socialized to be people-pleasers, but it’s critical to recognize that saying "no" to something is saying "yes" to your well-being.
As Brene Brown, a renowned author, and researcher, aptly puts it: "Daring to set boundaries is about having the courage to love ourselves, even when we risk disappointing others."
3. Practice Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques
Mindfulness is one of the most effective ways to manage stress and overwhelm. By taking a few minutes each day to engage in mindful practices like deep breathing, meditation, or even yoga, you can help reset your nervous system and calm your mind.
Try this simple grounding exercise when you feel overwhelmed: Sit in a comfortable position and take five deep breaths.
Slowly scan your environment and name five things you can see, four things you can hear, three things you can touch, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This technique can quickly anchor you in the present moment and alleviate anxiety.
4. Seek Support
Overwhelm can be isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Reach out to friends, family, or online communities when you’re feeling bogged down. You might be surprised how many others are going through similar struggles. Sometimes just verbalizing your feelings can help alleviate their weight.
How VAVY Society Can Support You
At VAVY Society, we understand the unique challenges that women face, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our platform is built on the belief that no woman should have to carry her burdens alone.
We provide a safe and inclusive space where women can share their experiences, seek advice, and connect with others who truly understand what it means to be overwhelmed.
Here’s how VAVY Society can help:
Community Support: Our online forums allow members to discuss their challenges, share coping strategies, and offer encouragement to one another. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone in your struggles can be incredibly comforting.
Resources and Tools: We offer articles, webinars, and workshops focused on stress management, work-life balance, and mental well-being. From mindfulness guides to time management tips, you’ll find a wealth of information tailored to your needs.
Expert Guidance: Our network of professionals—counselors, therapists, and life coaches—are available to provide personalized support and advice. Whether you’re looking for long-term coaching or short-term strategies, VAVY Society connects you with experts who can help.
Conclusion: Embracing the Journey
Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience, but it’s important to remember that you have the power to take back control. By recognizing the root causes of your overwhelm, setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support, you can begin to manage and eventually overcome these feelings.
At VAVY Society, we’re committed to walking this journey with you. Our community is here to uplift, empower, and equip you with the tools you need to thrive—not just survive. Join us today and take the first step toward living a life of balance and fulfillment.
