Content Note: This post includes candid discussion of emotional overwhelm, existential distress, and indirect references to suicide. Reader discretion is advised. If you’re in crisis, help is available—US: call/text 988.
The Reality of Feeling Overwhelmed
I talk about being overwhelmed a lot. I know it happens to the best of us at random times. Have you ever felt like you see no reason to keep pushing through and trying in anything that you do?
I get like that sometimes.
I’m just being honest.
In my relationships and career, there come moments where I need to take deep breaths and remember why I’m doing things.
The Chaos Before the Deep Breath
Before I take that deep breath, I get lost in the chaos of my mind and find myself just wanting an easy way out of life. If there was a way not to live this life without having to end it yourself, I bet more people would end their lives than there are people who actually commit suicide today.
I’m not even saying I’m suicidal, but what I’m saying is, “When is this all going to be over?”
The busy schedules, the struggle to get places on time, the responsibilities, the work and effort. When can I finally rest? Most people believe that you’ll only find rest when you’re dead.
What kind of life is worth living where I’m never going to stop worrying and working?
It’s these shower thoughts that lead me to almost getting depressed.
Finding Strength: Scripture and Good Memories
Rather quickly, I find strength in my mind. I have no idea where it comes from, but I’m reminded of Scripture and good memories that remind me of why I’m working on what I do every day.
I can see the smiles of my nieces, the laughter from my husband, the fun I have with my friends and coworkers. It always comes back to people.
Bible Verses That Bring Me Back to Peace
Psalm 73:26 “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.”
Psalm 116:7 “Return to your rest, my soul, for the Lord has been good to you.”
Taking the Bible Literally for True Peace
I take the Bible literally. I’ve never ever questioned it, and it’s truly given me peace of mind in everything I do. Maybe, just maybe, I need these reminders. I haven’t been reading so much lately, and so maybe it’s getting harder for my mind to bring back these promises to me when I need help.
A Message for Those Who Don’t Believe in Scripture
For those of you who don’t believe in Scripture, I suggest looking to people. Remembering what’s good about people, the good things they’ve done, and what you want to do for humanity.
Remember the Good – And Keep Standing Up
I find that as soon as you start looking at the bad, that’s when you get unmotivated.
Remember the smiles, the laughter, and the joy you’ve brought to people.
Remember that, and you’ll always stand back up and start again.