We all get overwhelmed by everything going on in our lives, from work to school to personal problems, you get the point. The problem, besides not knowing how to deal with the stress, is sometimes we don't even recognize how tired we are. I know that sometimes I'll have spent a long time doing school work, and I don't realize it until someone points out to me that I have huge dark circles under my eyes or that my lazy eye is drooping. I wish that we would be able to recognize when we need to slow down and let ourselves recuperate before we get so tired that we cannot function. Here are a few signs that may mean you need to take a step back from what's going on and focus on your mental health.
1. Your body constantly has a dull ache
Of course, your body can ache for a wide variety of reasons, but I find that when I'm most tired, I think I'm getting sick because of how much my body is aching. Then, after getting some much-needed sleep, the aching stops. Combat aches not only with Ibuprofen but by actually getting some quality sleep. Sometimes you have to come to the conclusion that the work is going to have to wait because you have to rest.
2. Your thoughts are jumbled
Trying to juggle a series of to-do lists can take a toll on your mind. I find that making physical lists helps me accomplish more on time as well as clear up my mind. Clear your mind by doing something that relaxes you.
3. You don't have time for your hobbies
I believe in always making time for doing what you love. In the case that your job is your hobby, then if your job stresses you out, find something else you enjoy doing, and do it! Have a ton of books you have to read for class and don't have time for leisure reading? Assign a timeframe every day that you will spend reading only enjoyment material.
4. You aren't enjoying the things that normally make you happy
This is probably the most important one, in my opinion. You cannot let stress stop you from enjoying living your life. If the people and activities you love are frustrating you and making you snippy, address what's stressing you, and separate it from those things. When you find yourself not wanting to hang out with the people you enjoy being around or doing activities you've always loved, it's time to give yourself a break.
Overall, find time for yourself. Don't let stress rule your life.
