Navigating Tough Times
Navigating Tough Times: Some Practical Strategies for Coping When Life Feels Overwhelming
Times are undeniably weird and stressful, and when you’re struggling, it can be incredibly difficult to see any light at the end of the tunnel. It’s important to remember, though, that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Forgetting that fact can make it all too easy – and tempting – to convince yourself that things will never improve.
This sentiment is especially relevant in the United States right now. Many people are paralyzed by fear for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s a baby boomer juggling the care of aging parents, raising grandchildren, and working full-time, or someone else facing financial instability, health concerns, or relationship struggles, countless individuals are feeling completely overwhelmed.
In my own life, I’ve worked as a peer counselor for people going through difficult times. With formal training in psychology and years of personal growth, I’ve gathered some practical strategies that might help when life feels unbearable.
Before diving in, a crucial disclaimer: I am not a doctor or licensed psychologist. If you’re in doubt about your mental or emotional well-being, always seek professional help over advice from a blog including this one!
Step One: Stop – Just Stop for a Moment
When you’re responsible for others – whether it’s a child, an elderly parent, or someone who depends on you – it’s not always possible to simply walk away. But the good news is, even if it doesn’t feel like it right now, there are people nearby who can step in to help. More on that later.
If you feel like you’re on the verge of exploding- like you just can’t handle one more thing – the first step is to pause. Sit down. Breathe. For the next few hours, do only what’s absolutely necessary to keep yourself alive: eat, drink water, and avoid any drastic decisions. Give yourself permission to step back, even if just briefly.
Step Two: Identify One Immediate Need
When everything feels like too much, it’s easy to spiral into thinking about all the problems at once. Instead, focus on the most pressing issue right now. Ask yourself:
- Are you hungry with no access to food?
- Do you need shelter or a safe place to stay?
- Are you in danger from a partner or family member?
- Has your electricity been shut off, leaving you without power?
You get the idea? What is it that is truly the most pressing right this moment? Remember, you don’t have to solve everything at once. Usually, when we’re at our breaking point, we already know what the biggest problem is. Don’t hide from it, but confront it. Identify it, rest for a bit, and then start taking small steps to address it.
There is often help available but it’s not always easy to know who or where to turn to. It is important, critical in fact, that you don’t let shame hold you back. Everyone needs help sometimes, and there’s no time for self-judgment when survival is at stake.
Some resources:
- In the U.S. or Canada? Dial 211 (like 411 for directory assistance) for free, confidential help with food, housing, crisis support, and more.
- In the U.K.? Contact your nearest Citizen’s Advice Bureau for guidance.
- Locally, there may be churches and/or other organizations that can help.
Step Three: Reach Out to Someone You Trust
One of the saddest realizations I’ve had as an adult is how many people don’t have someone they truly trust. If that sounds like you, know that building a support system is possible – and worth the effort.
Personally, I was raised in a branch of Christianity called Unity (not to be confused with Unitarianism, though both can be supportive).
When I’ve felt completely alone in the past, I’ve reached out to Silent Unity, a 24/7 prayer line where compassionate individuals offer comfort without any pressure to convert or attend services. They’re not therapists, but their presence has helped me through some of my darkest moments.
Silent Unity Contact Info:
- U.S.: 1-800-NOW-PRAY (669-7729)
- International: +1-816-969-2000
- Online
This is a free service – there is never a charge. Other Unity prayer resources can be found here.
Step Four: Pay Attention to Your Circle
The people around us shape our experiences more than we realize. This step has two parts:
- Evaluate Your Relationships:
- If you’re struggling with addiction and your friends are heavy partiers, it’s going to be harder to break the cycle.
- If your family constantly undermines your progress, you may need to set boundaries.
This doesn’t mean cutting people off forever, but sometimes, a temporary break can make a huge difference.
- Help Someone Else:
- One of the most powerful ways to pull yourself out of a downward spiral is to help another person. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture – even small acts of kindness can shift your perspective. When we focus on others, we often find clarity and strength we didn’t know we had.
Final Thought: You Can Get Through This!
Life’s toughest moments can make it seem like nothing will ever improve. But by pausing, focusing on one problem at a time, reaching out for support, and surrounding yourself with the right people or being that support for someone else, you can navigate these challenges.
You’re stronger than you think and help is always available if you’re willing to ask for it.
Article image by “Geralt.”
