BOUNCING BACK

BIG BOUNCE BACK

By Jane Marks

How many of us are feeling emotionally exhausted? I know I am. The accumulated stressors from our personal lives, work lives, and world events can be overwhelming to our mental health. As we try and manage our stress, the indicators of emotional exhaustion are all around us: lack of motivation, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, generalized fatigue, compromised concentration, expectation of dread, apathy, irritability, and lack of sustained joy. If we examine our lives and look around, there are so many triggers that can lead to emotional exhaustion. Even positive stressors like having a baby, getting a new job or winning the lottery can lead to this kind of stress. Most often, however, it is being a caregiver, the loss of a loved one, or other unexpected news that changes our daily functioning. We are simply drained. For those of us who recognize emotional exhaustion as a problem in our own lives, these tips should help with the “big bounce back” this week:

1. Create a significant wellness plan in your life by establishing your own “big routine.” For example, in the morning, focus on a healthy food start, exercise, and mindfulness. Afternoon: hydration, a quick connection to someone supportive, or a power nap. Evening: decompression, wind down, spiritual focus.

2. Make a time-off plan. Take the vacation days that you’ve stored over the years. If you can’t get out of town, plan a staycation by yourself or with friends. Make time for yourself—this is mandatory, not optional.

3. Set a plan for rebooting task hours. Knowing when to pause can prevent exhaustion. Pay attention to your body, listen, and most importantly, take action. Your body is used to guiding you and telling you when it’s done.

4. Establish a “small choice plan.” Break large decisions or big projects into small decisions. Experiencing smaller successes will nourish a continuing sense of accomplishment!

5. Build a plan to take charge of your mental health. If you know you have been off-kilter and intentional self-care hasn’t been enough, consult a mental health practitioner. While being vulnerable and open can be difficult, asking for help can be a huge step to a healthier you. Remember: identifying, expressing, and processing emotions are all a part of your path to continued wellness.

6. Finally, create your re-evaluation plan. What is really important to you? Set new goals, learn to say no, stick to those experiences that support you. What better steps for the “big bounce back” this week? I’m ready; are you?

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Ben J. Kirbo, M.D. Laurence Z. Rosenberg, M.D. Chris DeRosier, M.D.

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