Self-Care for When Things Feel Overwhelming

When things feel overwhelming, focusing on your self-care practices can help you be more grounded and less stressed. Here are some ideas to implement to ensure your needs are being met.

Self-Care Ideas

Student looking stressed out.

Acknowledge your feelings.

Realize that it's okay to feel the way you are. Be compassionate to yourself and give yourself the same kindness and understanding as a friend in a similar situation.

Student hydrating.

Develop routines.

When something is causing a lot of concern, daily activities can start to feel like a lot. Not doing regular self-care tasks can make things feel even worse. Determine what tasks you should do every day to support your wellness. Finch is a great app to help you plan and stick to your routines.
Student practicing mindfulness.

Practice mindfulness, journaling, and grounding exercises.

These exercises can help you from thinking too much about your problems and stay present.

Students shop at vegetable stand on the quad.

Eat well.

When we're stressed, it can be tempting to grab fast food. Instead, try to make food choices that are nutrient-dense and packed with lean proteins.
Students enjoying time on the quad.

Get outside.

When the weather allows, go outside and soak up some vitamin D! Being in nature has a calming and restorative effect.
Illinois students in group therapy.

Seek support when needed.

Asking for help is a sign of strength. If you're struggling with your mental health, the Counseling Center has a diverse group of clinicians who can help. We offer time-limited individual and group counseling as well as skill-building workshops.
Additional Resources

CampusWell: Five Affordable (Practically Free) Ways to Practice Self-Care

CampusWell: Count your way to calm: A simple breathing technique to help you stay present

CampusWell: Fice Practical Tips for Managing Your Anxiety

Finch App: Your New Self-Care Best Friend

Healthline: Eight Breathing Exercises To Try When You Feel Anxious

Calm: Seven Deep Breathing Exercises to Help You Calm Anxiety

Healthline: Thirty Grounding Techniques to Quiet Distressing Thoughts

Verywell Mind: Journaling to Cope with Anxiety

Verywell Mind: Five Types of Self-Care For Every Area of Your Life