Have you ever felt like you just can't take on one more thing? Like everything seems overwhelming and you just want to shut down? Joel Elston, life coach and addiction counselor, says you may not actually be exhausted - you could just be programmed that way.

In his conversation with podcast host Walt Thiessen, Joel discussed how our bodies can get stuck in a state of "fight or flight" when we're constantly facing trauma or stressors. The stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline that are released to help us fight or flee can become overactive when engaged for too long. This puts our immune systems on the fritz and makes focusing difficult. We get stuck just trying to survive each day.

As Joel explained, "It's a vicious cycle. So it's really hard to get out of that." But he's seen time and again that taking action is the key - even if the actions seem small or unrelated. As he told one overwhelmed client, "Wash the dishes, text me when you're done." Just getting a few tasks crossed off the list can shift your mindset.

Walt asked insightful questions to draw out more details. He recognized how easy it is to label ourselves as "lazy" or "depressed" without acknowledging we may just be worn down. Both men emphasized the importance of social support systems to encourage us and help us take care of ourselves.

Are you feeling like everything is too much? Consider taking a small action, even if it's something as simple as washing the dishes. And don't be afraid to reach out to people who care about you. You may find a shift in perspective that leaves you feeling empowered instead of exhausted. The journey starts with one step at a time.

Episode Page: https://www.loatoday.net/struggle-can-be-exhausting

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