Episode 2: Overwhelm Explained - Why It Happens & How to Calm the Storm
Welcome to Episode 2 of The Overwhelm Edit, the podcast for professional women who are ready to rewrite their story and reclaim their energy. In this episode, we explore the nature of overwhelm, why it arises, and—most importantly—what you can do to calm it.
What Is Overwhelm?
Overwhelm can look different for everyone. For some, it’s loud, messy, and chaotic. For others, it’s a silent withdrawal or a desire to hide. Either way, it’s your body’s unique stress response—your nervous system’s way of reacting to a perceived threat.
The modern world triggers this stress response far too often. Small things—like an email or your child not putting on their shoes—can feel enormous. That’s because your baseline stress level is already too high. So when one more thing happens, it sends you into a spiral.
Why Does Overwhelm Happen?
Overwhelm is a signal that your internal and external demands are exceeding your resources. Yes, the world is demanding. But what amplifies the issue is the internal pressure—the perfectionism, fear of failure, people-pleasing, and the chronic need to do more.
When your stress response is always switched on, your nervous system gets stuck in fight-or-flight mode. Eventually, your system can’t take any more—and the overwhelm erupts. Unfortunately, instead of relief, you’re left with guilt and shame.
But here’s the truth: you’re not broken. You’re human. And there is a way through this.
The APEX Model: A Tool to Break the Overwhelm Spiral
The APEX model is a neuroscience-based tool I teach all my clients. It’s practical, quick to use, and deeply effective.
A – Awareness Start by noticing what you notice. Is it tension in your chest? Snappy words? Racing thoughts? With practice, you’ll begin to recognise the signs earlier—before the spiral takes hold.
P – Pause Pausing allows your nervous system to recalibrate. Even a few seconds can help you make a different choice.
E – Embodiment Get out of your head and back into your body. One way to do this is with the physiological sigh—three deep breaths, with a double inhale at the top, followed by a long exhale. Use touch, visualisation, or grounding techniques to anchor yourself in the present moment.
X – Crossroads This is where you choose your next step with intention. Do you go forward with that task or conversation? Or now that calm has returned, is there a better path?
Why This Matters
When you learn to calm your nervous system, you're no longer reacting—you’re responding. You reclaim agency. You create space to live with more presence and peace.
And you don’t have to wait until things get worse. You can use this tool right now, today.
Try It Yourself
Give the APEX Model a go the next time you feel the spiral of overwhelm starting. The more you practice, the more powerful it becomes.
Looking for More Support?
Listen to the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts
Download my free guide: 5 Ways to Beat Overwhelm
Connect on Instagram: @drsaralouwylie
Disclaimer
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical or mental health advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for your individual needs.
