Why Do We Feel Overwhelmed Nowadays?

A Psychological Perspective with Indian Social Context

Feeling overwhelmed has become increasingly common in today’s world. From a psychological viewpoint, overwhelm occurs when life’s demands feel greater than our ability to cope. This experience is not a personal failure but a natural response to constant pressure, emotional load, and mental fatigue.

One major cause is mental overload. Modern life exposes the brain to continuous stimulation through work pressure, digital screens, social media, and constant decision-making. The mind rarely gets rest. When there is no mental pause, stress accumulates and leads to emotional exhaustion.

In Indian society, this overwhelm is often intensified by strong social and family expectations. Many individuals grow up feeling responsible for family well-being, financial stability, and social reputation. The pressure to succeed academically, secure a stable career, and meet societal standards of success creates chronic stress, especially among students and young professionals.

Another psychological factor is comparison. In the age of social media, achievements, lifestyles, and milestones are constantly visible. In India, where success is often measured by marks, salary, marriage, or status, comparison becomes deeply ingrained. This leads to feelings of inadequacy, fear of falling behind, and self-doubt.

Emotional suppression also plays a significant role. Many people are taught to stay strong, adjust, and not express emotional distress openly. Mental health struggles are still stigmatized in many parts of Indian society. As a result, emotions remain unspoken, slowly building into overwhelm, anxiety, or burnout.

Lack of boundaries further adds to the problem. Work-life balance is often ignored, with long working hours and the expectation of constant availability. Respect for personal time is limited, leaving little space for rest and emotional recovery.

Uncertainty in areas such as employment, health, relationships, and financial security also contributes to overwhelm. The brain perceives uncertainty as a threat, keeping stress responses active for long periods.

Psychologically, feeling overwhelmed is a signal, not a weakness. It indicates the need for rest, emotional expression, realistic expectations, and support. By setting boundaries, reducing comparison, and seeking help without shame, individuals can navigate stress more healthily, even within demanding social environments.

Ms. Joyce Psychologist, Ushaar.com