Why Does Everything Stress Me Out? And How to Cope

Have you ever felt like even the smallest things set you off? From minor inconveniences to major life changes, it may seem like everything- work, relationships, responsibilities, and even social interactions- leaves you feeling drained and overwhelmed. If you find yourself thinking, “Why does everything stress me out?” you’re not alone. Many people experience heightened sensitivity to stress, or your stress may even be linked to depression or anxiety. Understanding why this happens to you is the first step toward finding relief.

Keep reading to learn more.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

1. Stress overload
2. Why you feel chronically stressed
3. What you can do

Stress Overload

When we think of the word stress, it typically has a negative connotation. “Eustress” is know as the good type of stress- the feeling you get before starting a new job or going on a date with someone you really like. Stress can also help us make important decisions in dire situations or protect us from danger. When the body is face with a stressor, our brain releases certain hormones like adrenaline or cortisol to help us make those snap decisions.

If our bodies are in that fight or flight mode too often, it can be exhausting. If stress is being triggered too easily or too often, those hormones can overwhelm our nervous system- not good!

Why You Feel Chronically Stressed

There are many factors that play into why everything stresses you out, but let’s talk about a few.

1. Productivity obsession. Do you give yourself down time and schedule in time for yourself? Do you feel like your worth is based off of how productive you are? Productivity is a good thing, but it can be taken too far. Being obsessed with productivity can create a constant pressure to perform at your very best efficiency. This can lead to small setbacks feeling like enormous failures.
2. Emotional sensitivity. Some people are simply more sensitive than others, which results in feeling easily overwhelmed. If you typically feel different emotions very deeply, stressors may affect you more deeply as well.
3. Social media. The internet is an amazing tool, but it definitely has its downsides. Having the lives of thousands of people at our fingertips can be unhealthy. Especially in youth, people may find themselves feeling like they aren’t good enough, can’t keep up, and have to outperform the people they associate with in order to fit in.
4. Being a yes man. If you chronically overcommit yourself and stretch yourself too thin, you can face burn out. When your schedule is jam packed with work, personal, and social obligation, it’s easy to feel on edge and stressed out.
5. Underlying mental health issues. Conditions like anxiety, PPD, depression, or ADHD can make your daily stressors harder to manage. If you frequent feel stressed out or feel like small things send you into a spiral, it may be time to seek the help of a therapist.

What You Can Do

1. Move your body! Exercise it good for both our physical and mental health. Try to schedule time each day to move your body- if you can do it outdoors, that is even better. Yoga, weight lifting, or even just walking can help big time. Exercise releases endorphins, and endorphins are our natural stress relievers.
2. Set boundaries. If you struggle with overcommitment and overbooking, you need to learn how to say no. Protecting your time and energy will make a huge difference in your stress levels.
3. Self care. Make sure you take time for yourself! It’s good to find time to relax and do things that you enjoy. Sometimes we all need a self care day to reset and refresh.
4. Make a schedule and break down your tasks. Schedule out your week and break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable tasks.
5. Sleep and nutrition. Our physical health can influence our mental health. Prioritize getting enough sleep and fueling your body with healthy, nutritious foods.
6. Reduce your screen time. Replace this time with getting outside, doing something relaxing, or connecting with others.
7. Seek professional help. If life is just too overwhelming, or if everything seems to be triggering your stress response, a therapist can help. If stress is interfering with your relationships, work, or overall well-being, a therapist or counselor can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms and make you feel like your best self.

Recap of Why Does Everything Stress Me Out? And How to Cope

If you feel like the big things AND the little things stress you out, life is probably exhausting.

By understanding why you feel this way and implementing small changes in your daily routine, you can regain control and build resilience against stress. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey! Help and support are available. The key is to take small, consistent steps toward a healthier, more balanced life.

If you need help managing your stress or emotions, please contact us today.