Podcasts about Irritability

Your anger is not a character flaw, and your desire for more is not proof you are ungrateful. We are getting honest about the feelings women are trained to swallow, and we are turning them into fuel.We unpack “soul metabolism” as the way you metabolise life beyond food: your desires, relationships, creativity, money, romance, rest and the invisible life force energy that tells you what is true for you. When your soul metabolises faster than your circumstances, dissatisfaction is not drama, it is data. We talk about why different nervous systems need different things, why comparison creates shame, and how “it should be enough” often keeps women stuck tolerating the bare minimum.We also call out the places patriarchy hides in spirituality and personal development. “High vibes only” and law of attraction shortcuts can pressure you to bypass anger and grief, which conveniently stops you questioning what is unfair. The aim is not to act out from rage, but to contain it, listen to it, and channel it into boundaries, decisions and a clear direction. Think GPS: choose where you are headed, then put your time and energy behind it.If this lands, hit follow, share it with a friend who is done settling, and leave a review so more women can find the work. What would you create if you trusted your feelings?Want more from me? Head to KirstyDee.comFacebook: Kirsty Dee IG @KirstyDeeSharesText The Show/ Fan Mail Here

Is meat good for you, or is it quietly destroying your gut health, your cholesterol, and your long-term health?Have you been told to eat less red meat, focus on cholesterol lowering foods, and load up on plants to protect yourself from autoimmune disease and chronic illness, but you're still dealing with bloating, constipation, fatigue, or worsening autoimmune conditions?Or maybe you've tried vegan, vegetarian, or “clean eating” diets for your health, and instead of getting better, your symptoms got worse?If you said yes to any of these questions, this episode is for you.Today, we're tackling one of the most controversial questions in nutrition: is meat good for you?Over the last 8 years working with hundreds of clients, I've seen something that goes directly against mainstream advice. The very food people are told to avoid for their cholesterol, heart health, and autoimmune disease is often the exact food that helps them heal.Yes - even my vegan and vegetarian clients.In this episode, we're breaking down the truth about meat, cholesterol, and gut health: why meat may be one of the most powerful tools for natural autoimmune treatment and who should consider diets like carnivore, keto, or even the Lion Diet - popularized by people like Mikhaila Fuller (formerly Peterson) .But we're also going to talk about when meat doesn't work...what circumstances can make meat feel like the problemand what to do if your body isn't tolerating meatIf you've been hesitant to eat meat or wondering if you should include meat on a journey to eating healthier - this episode is for you.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Meat Health Controversy01:44 - Podcast Welcome Disclaimer02:51 - Why Meat Got Villainized10:39 - Meat Superpowers Nutrients16:50 - Antinutrients Plant Sensitivities20:35 - Chewing Jaw Development24:33 - Lion Diet Success Story31:25 - Client Wins With Meat33:57 - When Meat Feels Bad38:02 - Practical Protein Tips40:42 - Wrap Up Program InviteEPISODES MENTIONED:69// How to Naturally Lower Your Cholesterol – Without Having to Give Up Fat or Meat148// The Oxalate Episode: Why You Should Care About Oxalates115// Vegan? 4 Reasons the Vegan Diet is Making Your IBS Worse298// Low Stomach Acid Explained: A Real Root Cause of Acid Reflux, Candida, Constipation, and SIBO299// Slow Motility isn't a root cause. Here's what is.48// Got snoring, sleep apnea, TMJ, or teeth grinding? You may need an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist! – with Madison Scott, RDH, Myofunctional Therapist67// Endometriosis, Brain Fog, Eczema, Fatigue, Irritability, and Insomnia – How to Fix It All 40% or more in 3 Months [Client Testimonial -Jessica]WORK WITH US:Option #1)

Is meat good for you, or is it quietly destroying your gut health, your cholesterol, and your long-term health?Have you been told to eat less red meat, focus on cholesterol lowering foods, and load up on plants to protect yourself from autoimmune disease and chronic illness, but you're still dealing with bloating, constipation, fatigue, or worsening autoimmune conditions?Or maybe you've tried vegan, vegetarian, or “clean eating” diets for your health, and instead of getting better, your symptoms got worse?If you said yes to any of these questions, this episode is for you.Today, we're tackling one of the most controversial questions in nutrition: is meat good for you?Over the last 8 years working with hundreds of clients, I've seen something that goes directly against mainstream advice. The very food people are told to avoid for their cholesterol, heart health, and autoimmune disease is often the exact food that helps them heal.Yes - even my vegan and vegetarian clients.In this episode, we're breaking down the truth about meat, cholesterol, and gut health: why meat may be one of the most powerful tools for natural autoimmune treatment and who should consider diets like carnivore, keto, or even the Lion Diet - popularized by people like Mikhaila Fuller (formerly Peterson) .But we're also going to talk about when meat doesn't work...what circumstances can make meat feel like the problemand what to do if your body isn't tolerating meatIf you've been hesitant to eat meat or wondering if you should include meat on a journey to eating healthier - this episode is for you.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Meat Health Controversy01:44 - Podcast Welcome Disclaimer02:51 - Why Meat Got Villainized10:39 - Meat Superpowers Nutrients16:50 - Antinutrients Plant Sensitivities20:35 - Chewing Jaw Development24:33 - Lion Diet Success Story31:25 - Client Wins With Meat33:57 - When Meat Feels Bad38:02 - Practical Protein Tips40:42 - Wrap Up Program InviteEPISODES MENTIONED:69// How to Naturally Lower Your Cholesterol – Without Having to Give Up Fat or Meat148// The Oxalate Episode: Why You Should Care About Oxalates115// Vegan? 4 Reasons the Vegan Diet is Making Your IBS Worse298// Low Stomach Acid Explained: A Real Root Cause of Acid Reflux, Candida, Constipation, and SIBO299// Slow Motility isn't a root cause. Here's what is.48// Got snoring, sleep apnea, TMJ, or teeth grinding? You may need an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist! – with Madison Scott, RDH, Myofunctional Therapist67// Endometriosis, Brain Fog, Eczema, Fatigue, Irritability, and Insomnia – How to Fix It All 40% or more in 3 Months [Client Testimonial -Jessica]WORK WITH US:Option #1)

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in this solo episode of Navigating Life After 40, we're talking about something that does not get discussed enough: the mental health side of perimenopause. So many women are prepared for hot flashes, night sweats, and cycle changes, but not always for the anxiety, brain fog, sadness, irritability, crying spells, emotional numbness, panic attacks, forgetfulness, or the feeling of not recognizing themselves. In this episode, I share my own experience with anxiety, a panic attack at work, brain fog that made me question my memory, emotional numbness, and the pressure of functioning while mentally exhausted. I also talk about how women, especially Black women and women of color, are often dismissed when they say something feels off. This episode is a reminder that you are not broken. Your body may be changing, your hormones may be shifting, and your mental health deserves care, support, and compassion. In this episode, we talk about: • The connection between perimenopause and mental health • Anxiety, panic attacks, sadness, and emotional numbness • Brain fog, forgetfulness, and fear of dementia • Functioning at work while mentally exhausted • Irritability, rage, and emotional regulation • Why women are often dismissed by healthcare providers • How perimenopause can impact relationships, work, identity, and confidence • Why Black women and women of color need culturally responsive menopause care • The importance of tracking symptoms and advocating for yourself • Why it's okay to not feel okay Resources mentioned: The Menopause Society: Mental Health and Menopause https://menopause.org/patient-education/menopause-topics/mental-health The Menopause Society: Perimenopause https://menopause.org/patient-education/menopause-topics/perimenopause Office on Women's Health: Menopause Symptoms and Relief https://womenshealth.gov/menopause/menopause-symptoms-and-relief National Institute of Mental Health: Depression in Women https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression-in-women SAMHSA National Helpline https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/national-helpline If this episode resonated with you, share it with another woman who may be quietly wondering why she does not feel like herself. Join Navelle as a Founding Member: https://navelle-founding-member.tiiny.site Learn more about Navelle Health: https://navellehealth.com Listen, follow, and share Navigating Life After 40 wherever you get your podcasts.

Dr. Hillary gives a masterclass on depression! This episode breaks down the overlap between anxiety and depression, the concept of depression as a superpower, and the connection between empathy and depression. She shares ways of managing depression and your identity, treatment approaches for depression, recognizing and supporting depression in others, high functioning depression and identity in sports, and understanding and coping with depression.Chapters00:00 Anxiety vs. Depression: Understanding the Overlap06:11 Irritability and Isolation in Depression14:04 Depression's Impact on Brain Fog23:40 Depression as a Superpower29:30 Empathy and Connection in Depression36:12 Transitioning Post-Championship Moments47:45 Recognizing and Supporting Depression in Others52:54 High Functioning Depression and Identity in Sports

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, I explain the neural circuits that activate and control aggressive states and behaviors. I discuss how hormones, genes and environmental factors such as day length can shift our aggressive tendencies. I also share science-based tools for modulating aggression, including sunlight exposure, heat therapy and supplementation with ashwagandha or acetyl-L-carnitine. Read the episode show notes at hubermanlab.com. Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman Timestamps (00:00:00) Aggression, Types of Aggression (00:01:43) Context, Aggression vs Sadness (00:03:11) Hydraulic Pressure Model of Aggression (00:06:40) Sponsor: LMNT (00:08:12) Brain Areas for Aggression, Ventromedial Hypothalamus (00:15:26) Biting, Neural Circuits of Physical Aggression (00:17:52) Sponsor: Eight Sleep (00:19:09) Estrogen & Aggression, Testosterone & Competitiveness (00:22:37) Seasonality, Sunlight, Melatonin & Aggression (00:24:50) Cortisol, Serotonin & Aggression (00:26:35) Tool: Reduce Cortisol with Sunlight & Sauna; Ashwagandha (00:30:39) Sponsor: AG1 (00:31:58) Irritability, Aggression & Genetics; Seasonality (00:34:49) Tool: ADHD, Acetyl-L Carnitine & Aggressive Behavior Disclaimer & Disclosures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The guys break down six weird signs you're overtraining — the ones most people miss until it's too late. Beyond the obvious soreness and fatigue, they cover broken sleep, increased cravings for comfort foods, irritability, low libido, low mood, and repeated injury. Sal shares how he experienced overtraining firsthand during a double-split routine in his 20s — with zero soreness — and why that made it so hard to catch. They also cover why fitness fanatics are actually more at risk than beginners, how hormones like testosterone drop when you push too hard, and why a scheduled week off can produce 29% better strength gains than training straight through. Download the free 7 Day Overtraining Rescue Guide at ⁠https://www.mindpumpmedia.com/overtraining-rescue-guide⁠⁠. 0:00 - Intro & sponsors  1:53 - What overtraining actually means (and why it sneaks up on you)  3:08 - Sign #1: Broken sleep — waking up at 3am every night  7:27 - Sign #2: Increased cravings for comfort & junk food  8:51 - Sign #3: Irritability & short temper  9:41 - Sign #4: Low libido  12:26 - Sign #5: Low mood & lost motivation for the gym  13:03 - Testosterone drops, hormonal imbalance & overtraining on HRT  15:03 - Why NOT getting sore can mean you're the most overtrained  16:57 - Sal's double-split overtraining story  19:26 - Sign #6: Repeated injuries  20:31 - Study: Taking a week off every month = same results as training straight through  21:38 - Study: Scheduled deload weeks produce 29% better strength gains  23:09 - Bonus sign: Getting sick repeatedly  23:44 - Free 7 Day Overtraining Rescue Guide — ⁠https://www.mindpumpmedia.com/overtraining-rescue-guide⁠⁠ SPONSOR Kion — ⁠https://getkion.com/mindpump⁠ 20% off automatically applied at checkout — no code needed MAPS 15 BOGO — ⁠⁠https://maps15bogo.com⁠⁠ Buy 1 get 1 FREE — limited time 20+ Free Guides — ⁠https://mindpumpfree.com⁠ 7 Day Overtraining Rescue Guide — ⁠https://www.mindpumpmedia.com/overtraining-rescue-guide⁠ Mind Pump Store — ⁠https://mindpumpstore.com⁠ Instagram — @mindpumpmedia

By Friday afternoon, a lot of us are emotional messes. We just can't see it. Everyone around us can, but we're too depleted to notice. The warning signs are there, though: irritability, impatience, self-pity, loss of perspective, and a vulnerability to temptation. When you're physically tired, your body sends signals, and you want to sleep. But emotional depletion is harder to detect and harder to admit. Dallas Willard pointed out that Jesus was busy but never in a hurry. He took strategic breaks, slipped away to the mountains, and leaned into the rhythm of rest. Dallas's prescription for spiritual growth was simple: ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life. Hurry is the enemy of peace, love, joy, and passion. So, when was the last time you truly rested? Not caught up. Not powered through. Actually rested.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Our shout-out today goes to Brad Guck from Perham, MN. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. We cannot do this without donors like you. Our text today is 1 Corinthians 13:4-5. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful. — 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 Are you being puffed up—or are you building others up? That is Paul's question. Previously in this letter, he repeatedly used the word physioō (φυσιόω)—"to puff up," to inflate with pride (1 Corinthians 4:6, 4:18–19, 5:2, 8:1). Knowledge puffs up, he said, but love builds up. Now, in chapter 13, he shows us what that looks like. If you want to know whether your motivation is right, don't look at your puffed-up gifts. Look at whether they are building others up. Paul defines the loving use of our gifts—but not the way we expect. He does not start with emotion in this text He starts with restraint. Love is patient. Love is kind. And then he turns negative. Love does not envy. Love does not boast. It is not arrogant. It is not rude. It does not insist on its own way. It is not irritable. It keeps no record of wrongs. The word "arrogant" in this text carries the same idea Paul has been correcting all along—puffed up. Inflated. Swollen with self-importance. This chapter is a direct confrontation with the puffed-up pride behind their spiritual gifts within the church. Corinth envied the visible gifts. They boasted about their spirituality. They divided over leaders. They insisted on their rights. They flaunted freedom. They ranked one another. They were puffed up. And Paul says that none of that builds up. Notice how many of these traits target the ego. Envy compares. Boasting advertises. Arrogance inflates. Rudeness disregards. Insisting on your own way centers your will. Irritability reveals entitlement. Resentment stores ammunition. Love dismantles every one of those. Love does not puff up because it is not focused on self. Love builds up because it is focused on others. Here is the point: you can operate in powerful gifts and still be deeply inflated. But if others are not strengthened, encouraged, and built up through you, it is not love. And without love, nothing else matters. DO THIS: Identify one area where you've been easily irritated or defensive. Instead of protecting your ego, intentionally build someone else up this week—with encouragement, patience, or quiet service. ASK THIS: Am I using my knowledge or gifting in a way that puffs me up—or builds others up? Where is pride disguising itself as conviction? Would those closest to me say I strengthen them—or strain them? PRAY THIS: Lord, expose pride that inflates my ego. Guard me from being puffed up by knowledge, success, or gifting. Make me an instrument of love that builds others up for the glory of Christ. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Humble and Kind"

This week, we wrapped up our five-episode series all about social life and friendship for neurodivergent homeschooled kiddos. Episode 311 digs into a topic many families experience but often don't have a name for: social hangovers—the aftermath of social time when kids (and adults!) crash, resist future invitations, or need days to recover. Key Takeaways Social hangovers are the nervous system's delayed response to social effort, especially common in neurodivergent kids who mask, self-monitor, and process a ton during interactions. Signs include: Irritability or emotional explosions Withdrawal/shutdown Physical complaints (headaches, stomachaches) Refusal of future plans Reframe the behavior: This isn't poor behavior—it's delayed processing, not avoidance. Build recovery plans BEFORE burnout happens! Include: Predictable ending times and visual cues Leaving while things are still going well Immediate decompression time (quiet, silence, snacks, audiobooks) Regulation through movement or sensory comfort No reflection or questions until after decompression Proactive Strategies Know your child's social energy window—how long they can handle interactions before going into yellow or red zones. Support with lighter academic loads or more autonomy the day after social events. Avoid stacking multiple social events together; buffer days matter! Teach kids to name their feelings and advocate for breaks without shame. The Learner's Lab & Friendship Pathways If you want more strategies, real-time classes, and a supportive community, check out the Learner's Lab! Plus, grab our Friendship Pathways Handout (linked above!). The Learner's Lab is open to families using charter/ESA funds—reach out if you'd like us to become an approved vendor for your organization.   Links and Resources from Today's Episode Thank you to our sponsors: CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family! Curiosity Post – A Snail Mail Club for kids – Real mail; Real life! The Learner's Lab – Online community for families homeschooling gifted/2e & neurodivergent kiddos! The Lab: An Online Community for Families Homeschooling Neurodivergent Kiddos The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Resilient Sons: A Boy Mom's Guide to Building a Strong, Confident, and Emotionally Intelligent Family The Anxiety Toolkit Sensory Strategy Toolkit | Quick Regulation Activities for Home Affirmation Cards for Anxious Kids Nurturing Neurodivergent Friendships: Practical Tips for Parents and Kids RLL #42: What It's Like to be Homeschooled with Best Friends Molly and Ella Teaching Kids About Being a Good Friend with Help From Great Books and Netflix Teaching Kids to Befriend Others 5 Tips for Helping Gifted Children Make Friends Navigating Sensory Overload: Actionable Strategies for Kids in Loud Environments The Not-So Friendly Friend: How to Set Boundaries for Healthy Friendships Social Skills Activities for Kids Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to Making and Keeping Friends Have You Filled a Bucket Today?: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids One Big Heart: A Celebration of Being More Alike than Different Life Skills for Kids: Unlocking a World of Possibilities through Friendship, Decision-Making, Cooking, Achieving a Success Mindset, Time-Management, Budgeting, and More  Empathy Workbook for Kids: 50 Activities to Learn About Kindness, Compassion, and Other People's Feelings  

Aries season marks the beginning of a new astrological year — a return of instinct, clarity and forward movement.In this episode, I explore the foundations of Aries through its element, modality, ruler and house, and why this season often brings the urge to begin again. We talk about momentum, boundaries, life-force energy, and the essential lesson Aries comes to teach us before anything else can unfold.This is an invitation to trust what's stirring inside you — and take the first honest step forward. WE COVER:+ Aries energy foundations (it's element, ruling planet, symbol, house and more)+ What the modalities are in astrology and the rhythm they create + The significance of Aries being a cardinal fire sign+ The conscious momentum that Aries ignites this season+ Aries redraws boundaries and highlights what we no longer tolerate+ Awakening INSTINCT and inviting us to live, act and respond with less thinking and more gut-reaction+ What feelings such as Restlessness, Impatience, Frustration, Irritability and Anger are revealing this season+ Why it's time to take deliberate, unwavering action toward your heart and visionPlus so much more.EPISODE RESOURCES:Episode: Making Good Soil in the Darkness: Weaving Aries Season & Autumn Energy with Kerryn TrishaDon' forget to Subscribe, Rate & Review my loves!Thanks for listening as always xx

I'm on my physical health journey, what about you? Text me at 972-426-2640 so we can stay connected! Support me on Patreon! Twitter:  @elliottspeaks Instagram: @elliottspeaks Text me at 972-426-2640 so we can stay connected!Support me on Patreon!Twitter: @elliottspeaksInstagram: @elliottspeaks

Welcome to the March Q&A!We begin today's episode with a conversation about the strange, intrusive, and sometimes downright insulting comments women receive in public while pregnant. We also share a listener story about a home birth that took an unexpected turn when a woman's mother, meant to support her during labor, ended up creating some chaos after drinking too much wine.Next, we address feeling unusually irritable toward an older child during pregnancy, what to consider after experiencing shoulder dystocia in two previous births, and whether an intact bag of waters could contribute to tearing during a very fast birth. We also discuss whether it ever makes sense to remain in an uncomfortable labor position in hopes of helping labor progress.As for Quickies, we cover questions about nursing pillows, pregnancy spacing, breastfeeding and fertility, bras for labor, sleep regressions, breast pumps, retained placenta, building a freezer stash, one of Cynthia's favorite homemade salad dressing recipes, and the most famous people we've ever met. Thanks for being here, and enjoy today's episode.PS: Check Patreon for more from Cynthia on salad dressings!**********Send us Fan Mail Needed

Discover how hidden sensory triggers behind your child's big reactions, meltdowns and irritability can quietly overwhelm their nervous system, turning everyday moments into chaos. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, expert in Regulation First Parenting™ and childhood emotional dysregulation, guides parents to calm the brain first and restore balance.Parenting a child who melts down over what feels like “nothing” can be exhausting and confusing. These aren't random behaviors—they're your child's nervous system signaling stress. Understanding sensory processing is the key to prevention, regulation, and lasting calm.In this episode, I explain how hidden sensory triggers build stress in your child's nervous system, why some kids overreact while others seek more input, and practical ways to prevent meltdowns before they happen.Why does my child melt down over small sensory triggers?Many parents wonder why seemingly minor things—scratchy tags, bright lights, or hallway noise—spark big reactions. These are sensory processing challenges. Some children over-register sensory input, making everything feel overwhelming. Others under-register, seeking constant movement or stimulation.Tips:Observe patterns—when are meltdowns more likely? After school? During transitions?Identify environmental triggers like fluorescent lights, loud noises, or new clothing.Real-Life Example: Max refuses anything with tags. Switching to tagless, soft fabrics and consistent clothing reduced morning battles.A meltdown isn't about defiance; it's a nervous system on overload.How can sensory overload affect emotional regulation?When your child's nervous system is overloaded, stress hormones rise, prefrontal cortex activity drops, and emotional regulation becomes nearly impossible. This leads to meltdowns, irritability, and anxiety-like behaviors.Chronic sensory stress can even impact mental health, increasing risk for mood swings, ADHD, or anxiety disorders.Tips:Create decompression routines: quiet space, deep pressure like weighted blankets, or slow movement breaks.Track sensory input over the day: noise, light, touch, hunger, and transitions add up in a “stress cup.”Parent scenario: After a busy school day, a child snaps at homework. The trigger isn't homework—it's cumulative sensory overload from the day.You don't have to figure this out alone.Become a Dysregulation Insider VIP and get your FREE Regulation Rescue Kit: How to Stay Calm When Your Child Pushes Your Buttons and Stop Oppositional Behaviors.Head to www.drroseann.com/newsletter and start your calm parenting journey today.What are practical strategies to manage sensory processing issues?You don't have to figure this out alone. Regulation comes first.Before addressing behavior, calm the nervous system: dim lights, slow your pace, and offer predictable routines.A sensory diet—planned sensory input like movement breaks or vestibular input—can prevent overload.Tips:Use deep pressure, calm PEMF, or slow rocking to support self-regulation.Collaborate with an occupational therapist for home sensory strategies.Focus on sensory preferences—some kids love peppermint scents, others need quiet spaces.

Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and emotional reactivity are common symptoms many women experience during chronic stress and hormonal shifts in midlife. These patterns are often linked to cortisol imbalance and disruption in the body's stress response system.In this episode, Janell explains the cortisol cascade — a stress pattern that develops when the nervous system stays in a prolonged fight-or-flight state. Over time, chronic stress can disrupt the HPA axis, alter hormone signaling, destabilize blood sugar, and affect the hormones that support emotional regulation and restorative sleep.Many women notice that they feel more reactive than they used to. Small things trigger irritation. Emotional bandwidth feels narrower. Energy fluctuates throughout the day. These experiences are often misunderstood as mood issues, when in reality they can be rooted in chronic stress physiology.Janell walks through how cortisol interacts with progesterone, why the body prioritizes survival over hormone balance during prolonged stress, and how modern life continuously activates the stress response in ways our nervous systems were never designed to handle.This conversation helps reframe mood swings through a physiological lens so women can begin understanding the patterns behind what they are experiencing.In This Episode You'll Learn• What the HPA axis is and why it plays a central role in stress and hormone regulation• Why chronic stress can create mood swings, irritability, and emotional reactivity• The difference between high cortisol and low cortisol patterns• How the body shifts hormone production during prolonged stress• Why cortisol can contribute to progesterone imbalance in midlife• How stress and blood sugar instability reinforce each other• Simple daily shifts that help regulate the nervous system and support healthier cortisol rhythmsMentioned in This EpisodeTake the Hormone Clarity Quiz to better understand which physiological pattern may be affecting your energy, mood, and hormones right now.Connect with JanellInstagramhttp://instagram.com/thetransformationlifeListen to the full show:Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-transformation-show/id1441665376?uo=4Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3aWZqptF6dne2sZLPbJdkY

SummaryIn this conversation, Dr. Natalie reflects on her journey through midlife, particularly focusing on the challenges of perimenopause and the emotional turmoil that often accompanies it. She discusses the importance of letting go of societal expectations and the pressure to conform, emphasizing the need for self-acceptance and compassion. Dr. Natalie also explores the concept of procedural memory and how our ingrained habits can shape our perceptions and emotional responses. Ultimately, she encourages listeners to redefine their narratives and embrace a centered midlife, free from the burdens of self-judgment and societal standards.Episode 117: Expert Advice on Addressing the #1 Symptom in Perimenopause: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/y7WjcCkjf1b or https://youtu.be/GFTFQGbN1rgKeywords:midlife, perimenopause, self-acceptance, emotional health, procedural memory, self-compassion, personal growth, women empowerment, mental health, life transitionsTakeawaysTurning 50 can be a liberating experience.It's important to decide what truly matters to us.Perimenopause can bring significant emotional challenges.Irritability is a common symptom of hormonal changes.95% of our thoughts and behaviors are pre-programmed.We can reprogram our thoughts to be more compassionate.Self-acceptance is crucial for mental well-being.We often hold ourselves to unrealistic standards.It's essential to shift our narratives about ourselves.You are not broken; you are a work in progress.Sound bites"I was waking up that way.""Tell yourself a new story.""You are not broken."Chapters00:00 Embracing Midlife: A New Perspective06:35 Reprogramming the Mind: Breaking Free from Old Habits12:20 Redefining Self-Worth: A Journey to Centered MidlifeResources & Links to Connect with Dr. Natalie:Website: ⁠⁠https://LearnToLoveYourStory.com⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/learntoloveyourstory⁠⁠Instagram:⁠⁠ instagram.com/dr.nataliemarr⁠⁠Linked In: ⁠⁠linkedin.com/in/natalie-m-marr-psy-d-lp-6a9298147⁠⁠Tik Tok: ⁠⁠tiktok.com/@doc.natalie⁠⁠DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast and video is not a replacement for therapy and is not clinical, medical, or mental health treatment. Dr. Natalie Marr is a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Minnesota. Her work with ⁠⁠(⁠⁠⁠https://LearnToLoveYourStory.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)⁠, ⁠(⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://NatalieMarrCounseling.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠),⁠ and all affiliate social media entities is educational and coaching based ONLY. She IS NOT offering therapeutic services of any kind on these mediums. If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, please use the following crisis resources (this is not an exhaustive list of available resources):National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org⁠/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CALL 988Crisis Text Line: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.crisistextline.org/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Text HOME to 741741

Send a text to Melissa and she'll answer it on the next episode. The week before bleeding can feel like someone swapped your glasses for a funhouse mirror: small annoyances turn seismic, cravings roar, and sleep slips away. We're unpacking that shift, showing how PMS patterns point to specific solutions, and sharing what actually steadies the luteal phase so you feel like yourself again.We start by reframing symptoms as useful signals. Irritability, tears, heat, bloat, headaches, insomnia—each detail helps identify the drivers: estrogen dominance, low progesterone, cortisol overload, sluggish gut detox, blood sugar swings, even thyroid drag. From there, we match patterns to precise homeopathic options. Sepia supports the overburdened, snappy, “leave me alone, but don't leave” state. Pulsatilla fits gentle weepiness that craves comfort and fresh air. Lachesis targets hot, intense anger that lifts once bleeding begins. Nat mur aids the one who holds pain in and hates consolation. Calc carb steadies the overwhelmed and exhausted. Mag phos eases cramps that melt with warmth, while Nux vomica resets the overworked, overcaffeinated short fuse.Remedies land best alongside smart habits. Magnesium glycinate smooths sleep and muscle tension. Protein-rich breakfasts anchor blood sugar. Cutting back on sugar and caffeine tempers jitters and mood swings. Gentle movement—walks, Pilates, light rebounding—lowers stress without spiking cortisol. To support estrogen clearance, we lean on dandelion and milk thistle, add fiber, and hydrate well. If rage or despair feel extreme, periods run very heavy, or thyroid symptoms stack up, labs can clarify your next move and pair well with personalized care.PMS doesn't define you; it's your hormones asking for help. Tune into your pattern, use it to guide your remedy choice, and layer in the daily shifts that make stability possible. If you want one-on-one support, schedule a free discovery call at MelissaCrenshaw.com. To learn at your own pace and join a supportive community, check out the Inner Healing Circle at join.melissacrenshaw.com. If this conversation helps, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help more women find relief. You may also gain Access to my Fullscript dispensary and save 30% by going to: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/mcrenshawFIND ME!

Here's what no one tells you about strengths: knowing them isn't enough. Many high-performing leaders know their strengths well and still feel drained or disconnected not because they're doing something wrong, but because something is out of alignment. This episode explores why strengths alone aren't enough and what to notice when leadership starts feeling heavier than it should. I also unpack the difference between burnout and misalignment. Misalignment shows up quietly through constant urgency, reduced presence, or emotional fatigue and often appears long before burnout does. By paying attention to energy and emotional signals, leaders can realign sooner, practice their strengths more intentionally, and lead with greater clarity and sustainability. Top 3 Takeaways: 1. Knowing your strengths isn't the same as leading in alignment with them. Strengths used out of habit can drain energy when they aren't applied intentionally. 2. Misalignment comes before burnout. Feeling constantly "on," impatient, or disconnected are early signals not personal failures. 3. Your energy is leadership feedback. Irritability, urgency, and fatigue often point to misalignment, not incompetence listening sooner changes everything. Episode Minutes: Minute 1: Differences Between Burnout and Misalignment Minute 3: How Energy Acts as Honest Feedback Minute 4: Using The Authentic Imprint Assessment to Identify Misalignment Resources from This Episode: Take the free 3-minute Authentic Imprint™ Assessment Get a copy of The Internal Revolution: Lead Authentically and Build Your Personal Brand from Within Plan your days by actively using your strengths with The Strengths Journal™ Book a 30-minute discovery call to discuss your executive and team development needs

Send a textNot all trauma comes from a single event. Sometimes the trauma pathway is the environment itself—ongoing pressure, instability, or threat with little realistic ability to escape or recover. In this episode, we explore “chronic stress without an exit” as a nervous system pattern that can keep the body stuck in mobilised protection (wired, urgent, hypervigilant) and, over time, slide into shutdown (numb, foggy, depleted). Using simple polyvagal-informed language, we name common “invisible injuries” that can look like burnout or personality changes, and offer realistic support strategies that don't rely on toxic positivity or impossible self-care. We close with a one-minute downshift practice designed for busy, high-load lives.In this episode, you'll learnWhat chronic stress without an exit is (and why the “no-exit” part matters)Why this trauma pathway is often minimised or missedPolyvagal-informed patterns: stuck mobilisation, shutdown, and cyclingCommon signs (non-diagnostic): sleep disruption, irritability, guilt, numbness, withdrawal, fatigueWhat helps realistically: micro-recovery, load reduction, consistent support, and “islands of safety”A short grounding practice for quick nervous system downshiftingGrounding practice (1–2 minutes): “1-Minute Downshift”Unclench jaw, drop shoulders slightly3 extended exhales with a gentle humPhrase: “I'm allowed to have a small pause”Name one tiny next step that reduces the loadCheck the website for the free resources offered for both those affected by trauma and those supporting them.What's next: Society-Shaped Trauma (Part 1): Discrimination & Minority StressSupport the show

If you love her but feel like you are one wrong sentence away from a blow up, this episode is for you.In this Valentine's Day special, I speak directly to men who want to support their partner through menopause without making things worse. Mood swings. Withdrawal. Irritability. Low libido. Exhaustion. These are not signs your relationship is failing. They are signs her hormones and nervous system are under pressure.I break down five practical tips that help you show up steady, calm, and supportive. You will learn how to regulate instead of fix, how to stop taking it personally, how to bring back touch without pressure, how to ask better questions, and how to reframe Valentine's Day around relief instead of performance.I also share thoughtful gift ideas that say “I see you” without implying sex is expected. Cooling tools. Nervous system support. Body safe lubricants. Comfort focused intimacy.Menopause does not ruin relationships. Misunderstanding does. When you show up informed and grounded, she feels safe. And safety is the foundation of desire.In this episode:00:00 One Wrong Sentence Away From a Blow Up 00:26 Show Intro and What This Episode Covers 00:55 Substack Community Announcement 01:28 What Menopause Is Really Doing Behind the Scenes 02:05 Tip 1 Stop Fixing and Start Regulating 02:50 Cooling Tools and Smart Valentine's Gift Ideas 03:20 Tip 2 Don't Take It Personally 04:05 FirmTech Sponsor Message 04:45 Tip 3 Bring Back Touch Without Pressure 05:32 Tip 4 Ask Better Questions 06:05 Lubricants and Comfort Focused Intimacy 06:20 Tip 5 Make Valentine's Day About Relief 06:45 Men and Menopause Course and Closing Want a deeper look? Watch the full episode on YouTube for a more visual experience of today's discussion. This episode is best enjoyed on video—don't miss out!

In Part 1 of this conversation, Jamie sits down with nurse practitioner Jaclyn Taylor to pull wellness out of the “buzzword” category and into real life. They talk about why so many people feel stuck—fatigued, anxious, gaining weight, losing motivation—and why the first step isn't a perfect plan…it's being listened to. Jaclyn breaks down what the Your Health Wellness Program offers, how bioidentical hormone replacement therapy works, and why “normal labs” don't always mean you're actually okay. This episode is for anyone who's been powering through, silently struggling, or wondering if feeling better is still possible. www.YourHealth.Org

The Workplace Problem No One Trains Leaders For: Grief Grief doesn't politely stay home. It shows up in meetings, deadlines, silence, irritability, and decisions that suddenly feel harder than they used to. And most leaders don't recognize it when it arrives. Instead, grief at work gets mislabeled as disengagement, attitude, or a performance problem. In this deeply personal episode of The Leadership Sandbox, Tammy J. Bond steps into a conversation leaders are rarely trained to handle—but are guaranteed to face. Drawing from her own experience with sudden loss and ongoing family challenges, Tammy unpacks how grief quietly impacts capacity, behavior, and trust inside organizations. This is not a therapy episode. This is a leadership episode.     In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why grief doesn't "end" when bereavement leave does How grief shows up at work in ways leaders often misinterpret The difference between a performance issue and a capacity issue Why treating grief like a character flaw erodes trust Three practical leadership moves that create safety without lowering standards How to apply the COMMAND Leadership Operating System to moments of grief What it really means to lead humans—not just workflows     What Grief Often Looks Like at Work: Slower thinking and decision fatigue Missed details or forgetfulness Irritability or a shorter fuse Withdrawal in meetings Perfectionism or micromanaging Being present—but not fully functional These are not motivation problems. They are capacity challenges.     Leadership Moves That Matter: Name reality without making it weird Create a capacity plan—not a sympathy speech Keep the standard and adjust the path Grief doesn't remove accountability. It requires clearer priorities and fewer moving parts.     COMMAND in Action: Claim Reality – Grief exists in your workforce whether you acknowledge it or not Own Impact – Your response sets the emotional temperature Map the System – Leave, workload, coverage, expectations Move the Behavior – Check-ins, clarity, flexibility with structure Anchor the Standard – Humanity and accountability can coexist Normalize Accountability – Fewer priorities, clearly measured Deploy & Defend – Protect people from being punished for being human     Bottom Line Grief isn't a performance issue first. It's a capacity issue. And capacity is a leadership responsibility. If you only know how to lead people on their best days—you don't yet know how to lead.     Listen & Share If this episode resonated, share it with a leader, manager, or team member who could benefit from a more human approach to leadership during hard seasons.      

Episode Summary: Today we’re tackling a topic that hits many people hard each January: “Blue Monday.” You may have heard it called “the most depressing day of the year”: a day when motivation runs low, bills come due, and the sparkle of the holidays fades into the grayness of winter. But is “Blue Monday” real? Why do so many people feel down this time of year? And what can you do, spiritually, emotionally, and physically, to climb out of the slump and find renewed hope? If you’ve ever felt like the light of Christmas faded too fast or that you’re struggling to find joy in January, this episode is for you. In this episode, I share How to Beat the Blues: Finding Hope When “Blue Monday” Hits. We unpack where the idea of “Blue Monday” came from, what really contributes to winter sadness, how to recognize when it’s more than just a passing mood, and how God invites us to nurture our mind and soul even in the darkest season. Quotables from the episode: Every January, the search engines light up with people looking for answers about “Blue Monday.” Some call it the most depressing day of the year. But here’s the truth: God doesn’t mark any day on His calendar as hopeless. Even when science can explain some of the factors that make us feel low, Scripture reminds us in John 1:5 that “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” So today, let’s uncover both the science and the Savior’s invitation to find peace, joy, and renewed perspective, no matter what your calendar says. Part 1: Where “Blue Monday” Came From The term “Blue Monday” actually originated not from a psychologist or neuroscientist, but from a marketing campaign in the early 2000s. A British travel company wanted to boost winter vacation sales and partnered with a psychologist to create a formula that supposedly calculated the “most depressing day of the year.” They based it on factors like weather, debt level, time since Christmas, failed New Year’s resolutions, and low motivation. The date usually lands on the third Monday in January. But here’s what’s interesting: the science behind it was never validated. It was largely pseudoscience; a catchy idea meant to sell trips to sunny places! Yet it resonated with people because, truthfully, many do feel a dip in mood this time of year. Why? There’s a real physiological and psychological basis for that. Shorter daylight hours disrupt our circadian rhythm and lower serotonin levels—our brain’s natural mood stabilizer. Colder temperatures mean less outdoor activity and fewer endorphins. Holiday aftermath leaves us financially stretched and emotionally fatigued. Unmet resolutions of ourselves or others stir up shame or disappointment. So while “Blue Monday” may not be an official scientific day, it does point to something many experience: what we might call the post-holiday blues or seasonal affective slump. Part 2: How to Identify It Let’s talk about how you can tell if what you’re feeling is just a short-term dip or something more concerning. Here are some common symptoms of the “Blue Monday” slump: Low motivation or energy Irritability or tearfulness Difficulty concentrating Changes in sleep or appetite Feeling disconnected or unproductive Hopeless thoughts like “What’s the point?” If you’ve noticed these for a few days after the holidays, you’re not alone. Our brains and bodies crave rhythm and light—and winter often disrupts both. But sometimes, what starts as a temporary funk can evolve into something more serious like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or Major Depression. Part 3: When to Seek Professional Help Seek professional help if: Your sadness lasts more than two weeks. You lose interest in things you usually enjoy. Your sleep or appetite drastically change. You feel worthless, helpless, or hopeless. You find yourself withdrawing from others. You experience thoughts of death or suicide. Those are not signs of weakness—they’re signals from your body and brain that you need care and support. Just as you’d seek medical help for persistent pain, it’s wise to seek mental health help for persistent sadness. As a neuropsychologist, I’ve seen firsthand that depression and anxiety are treatable. There are excellent therapies, medical interventions, and lifestyle approaches that can help. But the first step is reaching out. And as a believer, I want you to know this: needing help does not make you a failure of faith. God often works through professionals to bring healing. He created our minds and bodies with complexity, and He delights when we care for them wisely. Remember Elijah in 1 Kings 19? He was exhausted, afraid, and said, “It is enough; now, Lord, take my life.” God didn’t rebuke him. God fed him, let him rest, and then gently spoke truth to him. That’s a model of divine compassion toward our emotional distress. Part 4: How to Take Care of Yourself If you’re feeling those “Blue Monday” blues—or a longer winter sadness—here are practical, biblically grounded ways to care for your mind, body, and spirit. 1. Get More Light Exposure to sunlight—or a light therapy box—can boost serotonin and regulate your circadian rhythm. Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” Light was His first gift to creation, and it still brings life today. 2. Move Your Body Exercise increases endorphins and dopamine, improving both energy and outlook. You don’t need to run a marathon—start with a short walk or stretch. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Caring for them is an act of worship. 3. Nurture Connection When we isolate, sadness grows louder. Reach out to a friend, attend a Bible study, or volunteer. Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 says, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up. 4. Adjust Your Expectations After the holidays, it’s easy to compare today’s ordinary moments to the excitement of December. Give yourself permission to slow down, to reset. The Bible gives us multiple examples of Jesus, the Son of God, taking time to rest. If He needed rest, why would we expect differently of ourselves? Matthew 11:28—“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”* 5. Feed Your Spirit Immerse yourself in Scripture, prayer, and worship music. Depression dims perspective, but God’s Word renews it. Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.” 6. Practice Gratitude Gratitude activates brain regions associated with joy and resilience. Even small blessings count—warm coffee, a friend’s text, a sunset. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 7. Set Rhythms of Rest Winter is nature’s reminder to rest. God Himself modeled rest on the seventh day—not from exhaustion, but completion. Rest refuels your mind and aligns your soul with His peace. Part 5: Reframing the Season Maybe this January feels heavy. Maybe you’re tired of gray skies or unmet resolutions. But let’s reframe it: What if winter isn’t a punishment, but an invitation? An invitation to slow down. To nurture your inner life. To rediscover hope not in circumstances, but in Christ Himself. Remember: no day is truly “blue” when it’s covered by God’s grace. He specializes in turning mourning into dancing, ashes into beauty, and despair into praise (Isaiah 61:3). The same God who paints the sunrise after the darkest night will bring light to your soul again. Friend, if you’re listening today and feeling the weight of winter, know this: you are not alone. God sees you. He is not disappointed by your sadness; He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). There’s no shame in reaching for help—from Him, from loved ones, or from professionals. Healing doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine; it means letting God meet you in the reality of your pain. Scripture References: John 1:5 “the Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” 1 Kings 19 “It is enough; now, Lord, take my life.” Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” Ecclesiastes 4:9–10, “Two are better than one… if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Matthew 11:28 “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Isaiah 61:3 “and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Recommended Resources: Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner AWSA 2024 Golden Scroll Christian Living Book of the Year and the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Christian Living and Non-Fiction categories YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, AWSA Member of the Year, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the 2024 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in the Devotional category, the 2023 Christian Literary Awards Reader’s Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 1 YouVersion Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day version 2 Revive & Thrive Women’s Online Conference Revive & Thrive Summit 2 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 1 Trusting God through Cancer Summit 2 Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2020 Best Christian Living Book First Place, the first place winner for the Best Christian Living Book, the 2020 Carolina Christian Writer’s Conference Contest winner for nonfiction, and winner of the 2021 Christian Literary Award’s Reader’s Choice Award in all four categories for which it was nominated (Non-Fiction Victorious Living, Christian Living Day By Day, Inspirational Breaking Free and Testimonial Justified by Grace categories.) YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Henri and Reader’s Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader’s Choice Award Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host: For more hope, stay connected with Dr. Bengtson at: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

 How can you tell when teen irritability is ‘just a phase' and when it is a sign that something more serious is going on? In this episode of Mind the Kids, titled ‘Irritability in Teens More Than a Phase' host Mark Tebbs talks with Dr Jamilah Silver, Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, whose work focuses on irritability, emotion regulation, and early emerging risk for psychopathology. Together they explore why adolescence is a ‘perfect storm' for irritability, how it shows up in daily life at home and at school, and when persistent anger, conflict, and moodiness start to impair sleep, friendships, and learning. Jamilah shares findings from a large multinational study of adolescents across nine countries, revealing how common chronic irritability is worldwide and how it links to bullying, depression, anxiety, and lower life satisfaction. The conversation also unpacks gender differences, classroom red flags for teachers, and why clinicians are beginning to treat irritability as a transdiagnostic “front door” signal that deserves earlier screening and support. Whether you are a parent, educator, or clinician, this episode offers practical ways to spot when irritability has tipped from typical teen behaviour into something that may need specialist help. For more details read the CAMH paper “A large multinational study of irritability in adolescents” Jamilah Silver, Ellen Leibenluft, Wan-Ling Tseng, Daniel N. Klein, Pablo Vidal-Ribas, Reut Naim, Praveetha Patalay, Eoin McElroy, Argyris Stringaris https://doi.org/10.1111/camh.70008  Get a free CPD/CME certificate for listening to this podcast when you register a FREE ACAMH Learn account at https://acamhlearn.org/Home

Show Notes:Hello and welcome to Authentically ADHD – I'm Carmen, and I'm so glad you're tuning in. Today we're exploring a topic I know many of us grapple with: why you're still exhausted even after resting, especially when you're both autistic and ADHD (often called AuDHD). If you've ever wondered, “I took a break, so why do I still feel drained?” this episode is for you.We often hear about the idea of a “social battery.” The classic metaphor goes like this: social time drains you, alone time or rest recharges you, then you're good to go again. It's a handy way to explain why you might feel wiped out after a party or a day of meetings – you used up your social battery and need some quiet time to recharge. For neurotypical folks or even just introverts, that simple formula sometimes works: hang out with people (battery drains), spend a night in (battery refills), and you're refreshed.But if you're neurodivergent – and especially if you're AuDHD (autistic + ADHD) – you've probably noticed it's not that simple. You might spend a weekend resting at home only to wake up on Monday still bone-tired. Or you take a day off to recharge, and by evening you're more exhausted than before. What gives? In today's episode, we're going to answer that. We'll talk about why the one-dimensional social battery metaphor doesn't fully capture what's happening in our brains and bodies. We'll dive into the neuroscience behind exhaustion in autism and ADHD: it's not just being “peopled out” – it's also things like masking, sensory overload, executive function fatigue, chronic stress mode, and even missed signals from our own bodies.By understanding these factors, we can start to make sense of why just “resting” isn't always enough for us. Importantly, we'll discuss what real rest means for an AuDHD brain. I'll share some strategies and tips on how to recharge the right way (because if your rest isn't targeting the actual type of tired you are, it's not going to truly restore you). And be sure to stick around till the end – I have 7 reflection questions for you. These will help you apply what we talk about to your own life, so you can figure out what drains your energy and how to refill your tank more effectively.So, grab a comfy seat, maybe a notebook, and let's unpack why you're still exhausted after rest – and what we can do about it.The Classic “Social Battery” Metaphor – And Its LimitsLet's start with that “social battery” idea. It's a popular way to describe energy levels, especially for introverts. The idea is pretty straightforward: social interaction uses energy, and solitude or downtime charges you back up. For example, if you spend all day socializing with coworkers or attending events, you might feel drained – your social battery is empty. Then you recharge by being alone, watching Netflix, reading, sleeping, what have you. The next day, your battery is full again (or at least partially recharged) and you repeat the cycle.This metaphor resonates because it acknowledges that socializing can be tiring, even if it's fun. It's commonly mentioned for conditions like ADHD or just shy/introverted personalities: “I need to recharge my social battery.” For neurotypical people, often a good night's sleep or a quiet Sunday morning might indeed restore that sense of energy.But here's the catch: the social battery model assumes only one dimension of fatigue – social energy in versus out. It treats all “rest” as equal, like plugging your phone into any charger will top it off. For those of us with ADHD, autism, or both (AuDHD), our experience tells a more complex story. We don't just have a single battery that drains and refills; we have an entire panel of batteries or fuel tanks, each for different kinds of energy. Sometimes you're not even sure which battery is low – you just know you're running on fumes. And crucially, if you try to recharge in the wrong way, it's like putting the wrong fuel in a car: you don't get very far, and you might even stall out.Have you ever tried to rest – say you cleared your weekend to do nothing – and you did all the “right” restful things like sleeping in or binging a show, but you still felt wiped out on Monday? I've been there. Before I understood the multiple dimensions of burnout, I would get frustrated at myself: “I rested, why am I still tired? What's wrong with me?” The social battery idea would have me believe that rest = recharge, so if I rested and I'm still tired, I must be doing something wrong. But the truth was, my rest wasn't actually addressing the kind of exhaustion I had.The classic metaphor doesn't account for things like:Mental overload – maybe your mind was exhausted from racing thoughts or decision-making, but your “rest” didn't quiet your mind.Sensory overload – maybe your senses were still on high alert from a noisy, bright, chaotic week, and watching TV on the couch kept bombarding you with light and sound.Emotional strain – maybe you were carrying stress or anxiety (perhaps from masking your true self or holding in emotions), and “resting” by doing nothing didn't process those feelings.Physical fatigue – maybe your body needed real recovery (nutrition, hydration, movement or sleep), but your rest was just lying around without addressing those needs.Executive function fatigue – perhaps you spent all week forcing your ADHD brain to stay organized and on-task, which is extremely draining, and simply taking time off work didn't automatically replenish that mental fuel.In other words, neurodivergent exhaustion is multi-faceted, and the social battery idea is just one piece of the puzzle. For AuDHD folks, social interaction itself can be exhausting, yes, but why it's exhausting goes beyond just “I don't like being around people too long.” There are underlying factors – neurological and physiological – that make social settings or daily life in general more draining for us than for others. Let's break down those factors.Why AuDHD Exhaustion Is More Than “Just Social”When you have autism, ADHD, or both, several concurrent processes are depleting your energy throughout the day. It's like having multiple apps running on your mental phone battery. If we ignore all but one, we miss the full picture. Here are some of the big drains on an AuDHD “battery”:1. The Masking Labor – Hidden Exhaustion of “Acting Normal”Masking refers to hiding or suppressing your natural neurodivergent behaviors to fit into a neurotypical world. Think of it as a social survival strategy: you force yourself to maintain eye contact even though it's uncomfortable, you hold back your stims (like fidgeting or rocking) to seem “calm,” you laugh when you're supposed to even if you're confused, you constantly monitor your tone and words so you don't offend or seem weird. Basically, you're running a mental filter 24/7 to appear “normal.” That is hard work!For autistic people especially, masking can be an enormous cognitive and emotional load. It's not just casually wearing a “social face”; it's more like performing a play where you're the actor and the director, constantly watching yourself from the outside. For ADHD folks, masking might involve holding back your impulsive comments, forcing yourself to sit still and appear attentive, or over-preparing for conversations so you don't lose track.All this mental multitasking consumes a ton of energy. Imagine your brain as a computer running several heavy programs at once – eventually it's going to lag or overheat. When you're masking, you might be:Analyzing every social cue and your own reactions (“Am I smiling enough? Did that joke land? Do I seem interested?”).Inhibiting natural impulses (“Don't stim, don't interrupt, don't pace even though I'm restless…”).Translating your intended words into more “acceptable” phrases.Absorbing the stress of not being able to relax or be yourself.No wonder by the time you get home from work or a social gathering, you feel like you ran a marathon (even if all you did was sit in a conference room or a cafe). Masking is exhausting. It's often described as wearing a heavy costume all day; when you finally take it off, you might physically collapse. This is a huge reason your “social battery” drains so fast and stays low: you weren't just socializing, you were performing and self-censoring nonstop.2. Sensory Processing Load – When the World Overwhelms Your SensesMany autistic and ADHD individuals experience sensory sensitivities. This means ordinary environments can feel like an assault on your nervous system. The lights in a grocery store are glaring and fluorescent, the chatter at a party is a jumble of noise, the fabric of your shirt tag is scratching your neck all day – these might barely register for a neurotypical person, but for us, they can be intensely distracting or irritating.Your brain is constantly processing sensory input: sight, sound, touch, smell, movement, etc. In neurotypical brains, there's a filter – they can often tune out background noise or adapt quickly to stimuli. In an AuDHD brain, that filter may be weaker or just different. Everything comes in at full volume, so to speak. As a result, you're expending energy just to exist in what others call a “normal” environment. You might not realize how much work your brain is doing to process and cope with the sensory avalanche until you find yourself utterly drained for “no obvious reason.”It's not just mentally tiring; it activates your physiology. When you're in sensory overload, your body can go into a mild fight-or-flight state. Think about being startled by a sudden loud noise – your heart jumps, adrenaline spikes. Now imagine smaller scale but chronic versions of that throughout your day: the phone ringing, the traffic noise, the uncomfortable chair, the strong perfume in the elevator. Your body might be perpetually a little on edge. Stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline might be slightly elevated as your system says “too much, too much!” Even if you consciously try to ignore a chaotic environment, your nervous system is still reacting. Over time, living in that amped-up state will wear you out.So if you spend a day in a noisy, busy setting (say, an open-plan office or a crowded mall), you might come home utterly spent. And here's the kicker – if your idea of “rest” is, say, plopping on the couch with the TV on, you might not actually be giving your sensory system a break. The TV is still light and sound. Your phone screen is still input. If sensory overload was a big part of your energy drain, you need sensory rest: dim lighting, silence or calm music, maybe a weighted blanket or whatever soothes your senses. Without addressing that, a quiet night might only pause the overload without truly clearing it, leaving you still jittery or frazzled the next day.3. Executive Function Taxes – Paying the “Brain Tax” on Every TaskExecutive function is like the brain's management system – it covers things like planning, organizing, focusing, remembering details, switching tasks, and controlling impulses. Both ADHD and autism can come with executive function challenges (though they might show up differently). For ADHD in particular, things like staying focused, following steps, meeting deadlines, and making decisions can require intense conscious effort. It's not that we can't do them – we often can, but it's like driving with the parking brake on. We have to press the gas harder to go the same distance.Studies have found that adults with ADHD use up more mental energy throughout the day just managing routine tasks. One psychologist described it well: people with ADHD exert greater effort on everyday decisions and self-control, which “burns up mental fuel” at a faster rate than neurotypicals. Have you ever felt strangely tired after doing “nothing” except answer emails or make a few simple phone calls? That could be because for an ADHD brain, shifting attention between those emails, resisting the urge to check social media, remembering what you had to do next, all of that took a lot of invisible effort.Autistic folks, on the other hand, might get mentally drained from tasks like navigating transitions (shifting from one activity to another can be jarring) or dealing with unpredictability without a clear plan. Planning and adapting – those executive functions – can take a lot of conscious processing if your brain doesn't do it automatically.All day long, we're essentially paying an “executive function tax.” Every time you force yourself to concentrate on a boring task, every time you have to break down a project into steps, every time you coach yourself through procrastination or try to remember an appointment – that's a withdrawal from your cognitive energy reserves. By evening, you've been taxing that system so heavily that you might experience brain fog, trouble concentrating, or an inability to make even trivial decisions (“decision fatigue” – like staring at the fridge unable to decide on dinner).If your rest doesn't give your executive brain a break – for example, if you “rest” by doing something mentally complex like reading dense articles or doing a puzzle when your mind was what was exhausted – you may not feel recovered. Sometimes what we need is true mental rest: no complex planning, maybe even a break from screens and information intake, letting our thoughts wander or doing a mindless simple activity. Without identifying that need, you might mistakenly think “I just need more sleep,” but eight hours later you still wake up mentally exhausted, because your mind never got a break from overdrive.4. Stress-System Activation – Living in Fight-or-Flight ModeThis one underpins all the above: chronic stress. Both living with ADHD and autism can be chronically stressful, even if you love your life and manage well. There's the stress of trying to meet neurotypical expectations, the stress of sensory assault, the stress of potential social missteps or failures at work, and often a history of anxiety or trauma from not being understood. All this means our sympathetic nervous system (the fight-or-flight responder) might be activated more often or more intensely.Physiologically, when you perceive a challenge or threat (and “challenge” can be as mundane as the boss unexpectedly asking you a question, or a sudden loud noise that startles you), your body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Your heart rate might go up, blood pressure increases, senses heighten. It's your body's way of gearing up to face something. That's fine in short bursts, but if it's happening repeatedly through the day, you don't get much time in the restorative, relaxed state (the parasympathetic “rest and digest” mode).Being constantly in a subtle fight-or-flight mode is exhausting. It also affects sleep and energy recovery. For instance, if your stress system is always a bit activated, you might have trouble winding down at night or you might not get deep, quality sleep. You could sleep a full night and still wake up tired because physiologically, your body hasn't truly relaxed. Chronic stress can also mess with things like muscle tension (ever realize you've been clenching your jaw or shoulders all day?), digestion, and immune function – which can all indirectly make you feel more fatigued and rundown.For AuDHD people, stress might be coming from multiple angles: social anxiety, ADHD-related worries (“Did I forget something important again?”), sensory stress, or just the general pressure of appearing fine while you're actually struggling. Even exciting positive things can register as stress to the body – like hyperfocus or sensory excitement can amp you up similar to anxiety. So if you're constantly running “hot” internally, you need cooling-off periods. If your rest doesn't include something that actually calms your nervous system – like deep breathing, mindfulness, gentle movement, a safe feeling environment – you might stay in a semi-stressed state even during downtime. That means your “battery” isn't recharging; at best, you're just not draining it further for a while.5. Interoception Glitches – Missing Your Body's Early Warning SignalsInteroception is a fancy word for the internal sense of your body's condition – basically, feeling your own internal signals like hunger, thirst, tiredness, pain, needing the bathroom, etc. Many autistic people (and some ADHD folks too) have differences or delays in interoception. This can mean you don't notice your needs until they're screaming at you.Think about times you suddenly realize, “Oh my gosh, I'm starving – I haven't eaten in 8 hours!” or you're shivering and only then notice you're cold. Or you're so deeply focused on a project (thanks hyperfocus) that you don't realize you're exhausted until you stand up and almost fall over. That's interoceptive unawareness – our internal “fuel gauge” is not very accurate.For an AuDHD person, this might lead to literally running on fumes. You might be extremely low on energy but not fully register it until you hit a wall (like a shutdown or a meltdown or just a sudden wave of exhaustion that knocks you out). Likewise, you might not identify what kind of rest you need. You just feel “bad” or “tired” or “crappy” but can't tell if it's because you're dehydrated, or overstimulated, or emotionally upset. So you might try the wrong fix. For example:You feel out of it, so you assume you need a nap. But maybe what you needed was actually food and water (physical need), so you wake up from the nap still feeling off.Or you feel “tired” but actually you've been sitting indoors all day and your body is under-stimulated physically and craving movement (some ADHDers know the feeling of being lethargic from lack of activity). If you just lie down more, you feel even worse, whereas a short walk or some stretches might have rejuvenated you.Or you feel mentally drained and foggy, so you try to push through with caffeine and working more, when actually your brain desperately needed a break from screens and information (mental rest).When interoception isn't giving clear signals, it's easy to mis-match our rest to our need. We also tend to wait too long to address our needs. It's like driving your car until the fuel light is not just on, but the tank is nearly empty and the car is sputtering – then you pull into a random gas station and try to fill up without knowing what type of fuel you needed. If you put diesel in a gasoline engine, the car's not going to run, right? Similarly, if you try a form of “rest” that isn't what your body or brain actually require, you won't feel better. You might get a brief pause, but not true recovery.This can become a vicious cycle: you rest ineffectively, still feel exhausted, maybe even more frustrated (“I rested and it didn't help, why bother?”), and then you push yourself further next time, edging closer to burnout.So, to sum up this section: the social battery is more complicated for AuDHD folks because multiple systems are draining your energy – social interaction plus masking, sensory processing, executive function, stress responses, and trouble noticing your needs. It's like having five batteries in parallel, and when you say “I'm drained,” it could be one or all of them that are empty. If you only recharge one, the others might still be flashing red.Now that we understand why you might still feel exhausted after what you thought was adequate rest, let's talk about the science and physiology a bit more, and then we'll move on to strategies for tackling this in real life.The Physiology Behind AuDHD ExhaustionYou might be wondering, “Okay, so these different drains make sense, but what's actually happening in my body? Is this all in my head or is there a real physical basis for why I'm so wiped out?” It's very real, and neuroscience and physiology back it up. Let's take a peek under the hood of the AuDHD body and brain when it comes to energy:Brain Energy and Cognitive Effort: The brain, even though it's just 2% of our body weight, uses a ton of energy – some estimates say about 20% of our daily calories. When you're engaging in heavy cognitive effort (like constant self-control, focus, or social navigation), you're burning through glucose (sugar energy) in the brain at a faster rate. Neurotypical brains might solve a problem or engage in small talk using X amount of energy. An ADHD or autistic brain might need 2X because it's working harder to stay on track or decode the social nuances. Over a day, that adds up. By late afternoon, you might literally be low on brain fuel, which is why you experience that heavy fatigue or brain fog. It's not just mood or laziness – it can be a sign your brain's resources are depleted.Dopamine and Neurotransmitters: ADHD is associated with differences in dopamine regulation – dopamine is a neurotransmitter important for motivation, focus, and reward. If your brain has a dopamine deficit in certain circuits, tasks don't reward your brain as much, so you have to push yourself harder to do them. It's kind of like driving a car with low battery – you can do it, but it might sputter. This not only makes tasks feel harder mentally, it also can lead to a sort of constant seeking of stimulation to get that dopamine hit (hello, checking our phones or daydreaming), which itself can be tiring. Meanwhile, autistic brains often have different connectivity patterns – some areas might be hyper-connected, leading to intense focus or sensory awareness, while other regulatory circuits might be less connected, making switching tasks or filtering input harder. The result? A brain that's either revving high or working overtime to shift gears. These neurological differences mean that an AuDHD brain is often running rich (like an engine burning a lot of fuel) all day.Hormones: Cortisol and Adrenaline: I touched on this earlier – the stress hormones. Cortisol is known as the “stress hormone” that follows a circadian rhythm (should be high in morning, low at night) and spikes during stress. Chronic high cortisol from frequent stress can cause fatigue, brain fog, and even body aches. Adrenaline (epinephrine) is more immediate – it gives you that jolt in emergencies. If you're frequently anxious or overstimulated, your adrenaline might spike often, and afterwards you typically feel a crash – shaky, tired, maybe headachey. Some of us live in a pattern of mini adrenaline spikes throughout the day (panic about a task deadline, sensory shock from a siren, social anxiety spike when your phone rings…). Over time, this wears you down and can dysregulate your whole energy system. Your body might start overreacting or underreacting to stress due to burnout of the stress response system. This is why managing stress and actually engaging the relaxation response (like deep breathing to trigger the vagus nerve, which can lower heart rate and cortisol) is so key. Physically calming your body is not just woo-woo; it's helping your hormones rebalance so you can truly recharge.Muscle Tension and Physical Load: Ever notice how when you're mentally stressed, your body feels sore or tired? If you have anxiety or are masking, you might be unconsciously tensing muscles – clenching your jaw, hunching shoulders, or tapping your foot all day. Autistic folks might suppress stims which actually takes muscle control. ADHDers might be restraining their urge to move. All this can lead to physical exhaustion and even pain by day's end. Plus, conditions often co-occurring with AuDHD – like hypermobility, sleep disturbances, or digestive issues – can further sap physical energy.Sleep Quality: Many of us with ADHD or autism have sleep issues – trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or not feeling rested from sleep. Neurologically, if your brain has trouble shutting off (common with ADHD racing thoughts or autism's difficulty unwinding routines), you might not get enough deep sleep. Sleep is when the brain and body repair. It's like plugging in your phone overnight – if you only charge to 50% or keep getting unplugged, you start the day at a deficit. Over days and weeks, that compounded sleep debt can make any amount of daytime rest feel ineffective. It's like trying to fill a bucket that has a leak at the bottom.In short, there are concrete brain and body reasons for your persistent exhaustion. You're not just “bad at resting” or “lazy” or “weak.” Your system is genuinely handling more and recovering less than the average person's. Knowing this is validating – it's not in your imagination. And importantly, it points toward solutions: for example, approaches that reduce the constant load on your brain (like accommodations or assistive tools for executive function), or practices that actively help your nervous system relax (like mindfulness, therapy, or sensory decompression activities).What AuDHD Exhaustion Looks Like in Daily LifeIt might be helpful to recognize how this kind of multi-faceted exhaustion shows up, because sometimes we don't even have the words for what we're feeling. We just know we're done. Here are some common signs that your various “batteries” are drained:Brain Fog and Zoning Out: You've had a day full of interactions and tasks, and now you just can't think straight. You find yourself staring at the wall or scrolling mindlessly because your brain refuses to focus on anything else. That's mental exhaustion – your brain is literally trying to power down for a bit. Autistic folks might experience shutdowns: where you go non-verbal or withdraw because your brain says “nope, I cannot engage anymore.” ADHD folks might find their attention just ricochets around or flatlines.Physical Fatigue and Aches: Your body might feel as if you ran a marathon, even if you didn't move much. Maybe your legs feel heavy, or you have a tension headache from hours of concentrating or from sensory stress (like squinting in bright light or bracing against loud noises). Chronic muscle tension can manifest as back or neck pain. Some people get stress-related fatigue where you feel flu-like (aching, low energy) purely from the cortisol rollercoaster.Irritability or Emotional Volatility: When we're running on empty, small things become big things. You might have a shorter fuse – maybe you snap at your partner or get teary over a minor issue. For AuDHD individuals, emotional regulation can already be a challenge (ADHD is often associated with big swings of feelings or what's called “Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria,” and autistic people can feel emotions intensely too). Exhaustion strips away the buffers we normally have. So that irritability, sadness, or anxiety that creeps in after a long day might actually be a symptom of fatigue. Think of little kids – when they're overtired, they have meltdowns over nothing. We adults are the same, we just mask it better until we can't.Avoidance and Withdrawal: You might cancel plans with people you actually like, or avoid a phone call from your best friend, simply because the thought of any interaction is overwhelming. This is often labeled the “social hangover.” After too much stimulation or masking, you might need to be alone, sometimes for days, to feel normal again. You might also pull away from work or responsibilities – like ignoring emails, procrastinating important tasks – not because you don't care, but because you just can't right now. Your system is forcing a shutdown of non-critical activities to try to recover.Lack of Motivation or Pleasure: When all your energy is sapped, even things you normally enjoy can feel like chores. A hobby you love feels too demanding. Meeting a friend for a fun activity feels daunting. This can be tricky because it can start to look like depression. In fact, chronic exhaustion and burnout can lead to depression, and they share some symptoms. One distinguishing factor some people notice: if it's primarily AuDHD fatigue, when you do occasionally get a burst of energy or hyperfocus (say something really interests you or you had a very restful period), your mood and motivation bounce back. Whereas with clinical depression, even on good energy days you might not feel joy. It can co-occur though, so it's always good to be mindful of mental health – but often what we think might be “I'm depressed or lazy” is actually “I'm burnt out and my brain is desperately trying to conserve energy.”Failure to Rejuvenate: The hallmark sign – you tried to rest, and it “didn't work.” Like you slept in, but you still feel tired. Or you spent the evening doing nothing, but feel no more ready to face the next day. It might feel like you have a permanently low battery that never gets past 50%, no matter what you do. This is a big clue that something about the type of rest or the amount of rest isn't matching what you need (we'll address that soon). It can also be a sign of deeper burnout, where short-term fixes won't cut it and you might need a more significant change or longer recovery time.Frequent Illness or Pain Flare-ups: I'll mention this too – when you're chronically exhausted, your immune system can weaken. You might catch every cold that comes around, or if you have conditions like migraines or fibromyalgia (common in neurodivergent populations), they might flare when you're overtaxed. It's like your body is waving the white flag through symptoms.Does some of that feel familiar? It's not a fun list, I know. But recognizing these signs in yourself is important. It's the first step to acknowledging, “I'm not lazy, I'm not failing at self-care – there's something very real going on that I can address differently.”Now, the big question: What can we do about it? How do we recharge all these different batteries properly, so that rest actually means something and we can start to restore our energy (and maybe even prevent getting so drained in the first place)? Let's move into the practical part: strategies and tips to manage your energy as an AuDHD person.Tips and Strategies for True RechargingAlright, now that we've dissected the problem, let's talk solutions. The goal here is to help you rest smarter, not just more. We want to target the right kind of rest for the exhaustion you have, and also manage our lives in a way that prevents draining every battery to zero if possible. Here are some strategies and tips, a blend of personal experience, science-backed advice, and things that many neurodivergent folks find helpful:1. Identify What Kind of “Tired” You Are: When you feel wiped out, take a moment to do a self check-in: What exactly feels drained? Is it your brain (mental fatigue, too many thoughts)? Is it emotional (feeling numb or overly sensitive)? Sensory (craving quiet/darkness or feeling jumpy at sounds)? Physical (body is heavy, sleepy)? Social (sick of people, need solitude)? There's no one right answer – it could be “all of the above,” but try to sense which ones are strongest. This matters because the remedy depends on the cause. If your tiredness is mostly physical, then physical rest (sleep, a nap, or just gentle activity) will help most. If it's mostly sensory, then you might need low stimulation (noise-cancelling headphones, a dark room, minimal touch). If it's mental, you might need to give your brain a break from consuming info – maybe do something hands-on or take a walk in nature without your phone. Practice asking yourself “What kind of tired am I right now?” and “What would truly feel nourishing?” It might take time to figure it out, but even just pausing and naming it can prevent you from automatically doing the wrong kind of rest.2. Embrace Different Types of Rest: Building on the above, familiarize yourself with the idea that rest is not just sleep or sitting around. There are many types of rest – some experts break it down into categories like: physical, mental, sensory, social, emotional, creative, spiritual. This might sound abstract, but it's actually practical. For instance:If you've been around people all day (social drain), you likely need social rest – some time alone or with people who are “easy” to be around (like a close loved one who you don't have to put on a show for).If your senses are overloaded (sensory drain), you need sensory rest – a break from input. That could mean a quiet dim room, or closing your eyes for a bit, or a soothing sensory experience like a warm bath (which calms the system).If you've been solving problems and on the computer nonstop (mental drain), your brain needs mental rest – do something low-demand like doodling, listening to gentle music, or literally daydreaming. Let your executive brain go offline for a bit.If you've been masking and managing emotions (emotional drain), you might need emotional rest – which could look like journaling your true feelings, having a good cry, talking to someone you trust and letting out all the bottled-up stuff, or just engaging in something that makes you belly-laugh or feel comforted. It also might mean giving yourself permission to not care for a little while about others' expectations.If you have an under-stimulation fatigue (sometimes ADHDers get exhausted from boring routines), you might need creative or novelty rest – which ironically means doing something interesting that fills your tank (like a fun hobby, a new game, something that sparks joy). This is why “rest” isn't always just doing nothing; sometimes our brains are tired from monotony and need a safe kind of excitement or creativity to feel revitalized.And of course, physical rest is important if your body is tired – that means sleep, nap, or gentle movement that helps you relax (like stretching, yoga, slow walking – often called “active rest” because it helps circulation and muscle recovery without being strenuous).Mix and match these as needed. Often, we need a combo. Say you had an overstimulating workday – you might need sensory + social rest (e.g. go to a dim room alone) and mental rest (don't force yourself to tackle a big project in the evening). Or if you spent all day caregiving your kids (social + emotional + sensory drain, parents I see you!), you might need physical rest (put your feet up) plus emotional rest (vent to a friend or watch a comfort show that lets you feel something). Being intentional about the type of rest means your downtime is more likely to actually recharge the depleted battery, not just scratch some other itch.3. Schedule Targeted Recharge Time (and Protect It): We often plan our work or social events, but we don't plan our recovery, and then it either doesn't happen or gets eaten up by other things. If you know certain activities drain you, start building in counter-balances. For example:If you have a big social event on Saturday, block Sunday morning as “quiet time” for yourself in a way that addresses the expected drain. If the party will be loud and socially demanding, maybe Sunday morning is reserved for a nature walk alone (sensory calm + solitude).If weekdays drain your executive function (as they do for many of us), maybe declare one evening a week as “no-decisions evening” – prepare a simple routine meal or order takeout, and do a low-brain-power activity. Treat it like a meeting with yourself that you don't cancel.Use tools like alarms or calendar reminders to check in with yourself during the day. Sometimes we literally forget to rest. A short pause mid-day to ask “How am I feeling? Need water? Need a break from noise?” can prevent deeper depletion. I personally have a sticky note on my monitor that says “Pause: Breathe & Feel – what do you need?” because otherwise hours go by and I haven't even unclenched my shoulders.Learn to anticipate crashes: If you notice a pattern like “Every day around 3 PM I crash,” consider adding a 15-minute rest break at 2:30 – maybe a quick walk or a stretch, or listening to a calming song with eyes closed. It's like a pit stop for your brain so it can finish the day.And importantly, protect that rest time. It's tempting to give it up when someone asks a favor or an extra task pops up. But remember, without that recharge, you won't be at your best and you might pay for it double later. Treat rest as an important appointment with yourself – because it is!4. Reduce Masking and Energy Leaks Where Possible: We can't always drop the mask – the world isn't always accommodating, and in some situations you might feel it's necessary to appear “on.” But consider where you can safely be more yourself or make things easier:Communicate needs to close friends or family: Let them know that after a certain time or event, you might be quiet or need to leave early due to exhaustion. Educating the people around you that “I get overstimulated or drained and it's just how my brain works” can build understanding and reduce the need to put on a show. If your friends know you're going to be sitting in the corner petting the cat after an hour at the party, and they're cool with it, you don't have to force yourself to mingle beyond your capacity.Stim and relax, even in small ways: If you've been holding in all your fidgeting or sensory self-soothing at work, take bathroom breaks or “fresh air breaks” where you can wiggle, shake out, do some deep pressure (like a quick self-hug or wall push-ups) – basically let your body reset. These mini-releases throughout the day can prevent the massive end-of-day collapse.Delegate or use supports for executive tasks: Energy leaks happen when we spend way too long on something because our brain is struggling. If you can afford it or have the option, use tools to reduce effort: maybe that's using a grocery delivery service instead of roaming overwhelming aisles, or using a scheduling app to remember appointments instead of trying to hold it all in memory. Perhaps at work you can ask for an accommodation like written instructions or a quieter workspace or flexible hours. Finding areas where you're expending extra effort just to keep up, and finding a smarter workaround, can save precious energy for where you really need it.Learn where you can say “no”: This is tough, but are there social interactions or obligations you can limit? You don't have to attend every gathering or help every person who asks, especially if you know it will overextend you. It's perfectly okay to have a quota – like one social event per weekend, or keeping weeknights free – whatever works for you. Saying no to others is saying yes to yourself, to your rest.5. Calming the Overactive Nervous System: Since stress and sensory overload keep us in high alert, actively practicing techniques to switch into “rest mode” can be a game changer. Some approaches:Breathing exercises: Even something as simple as 3 deep slow breaths can signal your body to relax. One technique is the 4-7-8 breath (inhale for 4, hold 7, exhale 8) which can reduce anxiety. Or try diaphragmatic breathing (belly breaths). Doing this periodically, and especially before bed, can help lower that cortisol and adrenaline.Progressive muscle relaxation: Tense and release muscle groups one by one. This not only relieves physical tension but also helps you notice where you've been holding stress (like “wow, my jaw was super tight!”).Sensory comfort: Use tools that help you feel safe and calm. For some, that might be a weighted blanket or a soft hoodie. For others, it's noise-cancelling headphones or listening to white noise/rain sounds. Dimming the lights in the evening, using warm-colored bulbs instead of harsh white light, can cue your brain that it's wind-down time. Basically, create a little sensory safe space for yourself when you need to recharge.Mindfulness or meditation: I know, not everyone's into meditation, but even a few minutes of sitting and noticing your surroundings or your breath can pull you out of the racing thoughts and ground you. Mindfulness can also help with interoception – if you practice checking in with bodily sensations in a non-judgy way, you might start catching those “I'm thirsty” or “I'm anxious” cues earlier. There are apps and guided meditations specifically geared towards relaxation and body awareness, which some neurodivergent folks find useful (and if traditional meditation is hard, things like mindful walking or even a repetitive hobby can be meditative).Therapeutic supports: If anxiety or an overactive stress response is a major issue, consider professional support. Therapy (like cognitive behavioral therapy or somatic therapies) can help you develop coping strategies and address triggers. For some, certain medications or supplements that regulate sleep and anxiety (like melatonin for sleep, or as prescribed by a doctor, maybe an SSRI for anxiety) can also be part of the puzzle. There's no shame in using every tool available to help your nervous system find balance.6. Tune Into and Honor Your Body's Signals (Practice Interoception): This one is about building the skill of listening to your body. It might sound odd if interoception is an issue, but you can improve it with practice. Some ideas:Set external reminders to check internal states. For example, keep a water bottle at your desk as a visual cue to drink regularly, rather than waiting to feel thirsty. Have scheduled snack times so you don't go 10 hours without eating. Use a bedtime alarm to remind yourself to start a wind-down routine, since you might not notice you're tired until 2 AM when you're dead tired.Use tracking or journals: Sometimes writing down energy levels or what you did and how you felt can reveal patterns. Maybe you notice “Every time I have back-to-back meetings, I get a migraine in the evening.” That's a clue to insert breaks or coping strategies around meetings. Or “Whenever I skip lunch, I get really anxious by 4 PM” – aha, low blood sugar and stress might be combining. Tracking apps for mood/energy, or a simple diary, can improve your mind-body awareness.Body scan exercises: These are mindfulness exercises where you mentally scan from head to toe, noticing any sensations (tightness, hunger, discomfort, calm). Doing a short body scan once a day can train your brain to check in with places you normally ignore. You might catch “Oh, my heart is racing, maybe I'm more stressed than I realized,” or “My eyes ache, I might need to close them for a bit.”Don't wait for crisis to refuel: If you start recognizing the earlier signs of being low on a certain “battery,” try to address it then, not when you're already in meltdown or shutdown zone. This might mean proactively resting. For example, if you notice “I'm getting pretty peopled out at this gathering,” excuse yourself for a short break before you hit the wall. If you notice you're getting headachey and cranky at work, maybe step outside or to a quiet restroom for 5 minutes, rather than soldiering on until you can't function. We often override our early signals out of obligation or because we're used to pushing through. Give yourself permission to pause before you crash – it can make a world of difference in recovery time and intensity.7. Replenish the Basics: It sounds almost too basic, but when you're worn down, foundational health stuff becomes crucial: nutrition, hydration, movement, and sleep.Nutrition: A brain that's out of fuel will feel tired and foggy. Try to eat regularly and include protein and complex carbs in meals to keep your blood sugar stable (wild sugar swings can mimic anxiety and fatigue). If you're too tired to cook on bad days, no shame in keeping easy snacks or shakes around. The point is to give your body some real fuel. Also, deficiencies in things like iron, vitamin D, B12, etc., can cause fatigue – might be worth getting a check-up if you suspect it. Many ADHDers forget to eat; many autistics have limited diets – so a multivitamin or specific supplements might help if diet isn't covering bases (ask a doc or dietitian).Hydration: Even mild dehydration can cause tiredness and headaches. Keep water or something with electrolytes handy. If plain water is hard, try flavored or fizzy water. We often forget to drink when hyperfocused or out of routine.Movement: This is tricky because when you're exhausted, exercise sounds impossible. But gentle movement can actually create energy in the long run. It improves mood, reduces stress chemicals, and helps you sleep better later. The key is gentle and enjoyable: a slow stretch while watching a show, a short walk in fresh air, dancing to one song in your room – something that gets your blood flowing without feeling like a chore. It's like giving your body a little tune-up. Some days you might only manage to move from bed to couch and that's okay too; when you have the energy, try sprinkling small movement snacks into your week.Sleep hygiene: Since many of us have irregular sleep, paying attention to sleep hygiene is huge. That includes things like having a consistent-ish bedtime and wake time, making your bedroom as comfortable and low-stimulation as possible, avoiding screens right before bed if you can (blue light and information overload trick the brain into staying awake), or using tools like white noise, eye masks, or even melatonin if appropriate. Also, if racing thoughts keep you up, try keeping a notepad by the bed – jot down anything on your mind to “offload” it, or listen to a calming audiobook or podcast at low volume to focus your mind away from anxious thoughts (just not one that's too stimulating). The goal is to help your brain and body wind down enough to get quality rest. If insomnia or delayed sleep phase (night-owl syndrome) is severe, consider talking to a doctor – there are interventions that can help (like light therapy, prescription meds, etc.). Don't just accept terrible sleep as your fate – it's something worth troubleshooting, because better sleep will amplify all your other efforts to recharge.8. Be Compassionate and Adjust Expectations: This might be the most important tip: be kind to yourself. Recognize that your fatigue is not a moral failing. You're not lazy for being tired. AuDHD individuals truly do face more daily stress and effort – of course you're exhausted! Start reframing rest as productive and necessary, not a luxury. It's part of your health and effectiveness. Also, communicate and adjust expectations with those around you (and with yourself). Maybe you can't do “all the things” in one day that others can – that's okay. Quality of life improves when you stop comparing your energy output to neurotypical standards.It's fine if you need two hours of downtime for every three hours of social time, or if after work your only goal is making a simple dinner and then chilling – that might be what allows you to thrive long-term. If you plan a restful vacation and you spend the first two days just sleeping and doing nothing – perhaps you needed that. Trust that meeting your needs is the path to unlocking your best self. When you do start feeling more recharged, you'll actually be able to do the things you want to do, and enjoy them, which is the ultimate goal.Each small step – whether it's learning to identify your tiredness type, or setting a boundary, or finding a perfect snack that keeps you from crashing – is a win. Celebrate those. We often have a perfectionist streak or we've been made to feel we're not doing enough. But here you are, learning how to take care of your remarkable, unique brain and body. That's absolutely something to be proud of.Reflection QuestionsAs we come to the end of this episode, I want to leave you with some reflection questions. These are meant to help you apply what we've discussed to your own life. You might consider journaling your answers, or just ponder them quietly. There are no right or wrong answers – they're just prompts for self-discovery and practical planning.1. Which aspects of your life drain your energy the most lately? Try to name them: Is it social interactions? Sensory environments? Work-related executive function tasks? Emotional stress? Recognizing your biggest drains is the first step to addressing them.2. When you do feel recharged or have a good energy day, what helped? Think of a recent time you actually felt rested or upbeat – what had you done (or not done) leading up to that? Identifying even small things that rejuvenate you (like “I felt great after that hike” or “having a quiet morning to myself made a difference”) can give clues to the kinds of rest you need more of.3. What type of rest do you think you're not getting enough of? (Physical, mental, sensory, social, emotional, creative, spiritual, or any category that resonates with you.) How did you realize this – what signs or feelings point to that deficit? For example, “I might need more sensory rest because I've been feeling jumpy and irritable by evening,” or “I suspect I need mental rest because my mind feels overloaded and I'm forgetting things.”4. How well are you noticing your own needs in the moment? Do you catch yourself getting tired, hungry, overstimulated early, or only when you're at a breaking point? Reflect on one or two cues you might have missed recently (like “I missed that I was thirsty and got a headache”). What could you do to catch those sooner next time (maybe a reminder or a mindful pause)?5. What is one barrier that often stops you from resting or recharging properly? Is it guilt (“I feel like I should be productive”)? Is it external (too many responsibilities, lack of a quiet space)? Maybe it's not knowing how to rest effectively. Write down that barrier. Now brainstorm one or two ways you could lessen that barrier. For instance, if guilt is a barrier, how can you remind yourself that rest is necessary (perhaps repeat a mantra: “Rest is refueling, not wasting time”)? If time is a barrier, what can you delegate or drop or reschedule to carve out a bit of downtime?6. What are some small recharge rituals you could build into your day or week? Think of tiny actions that give you even a spark of energy or calm. It could be a 5-minute tea break with no phone, or doing a silly dance when nobody's watching, or stepping outside to feel the sun for a moment. Make a little list of “go-to quick rechargers” for yourself. These will be handy when you notice a specific battery running low.7. Envision your ideal restored self. Imagine that you have been taking really good care of all these different energy needs for a while. How do you think you would feel and act? Paint a mental picture: “I wake up feeling __, I go through my day feeling __, I have energy for __, I feel more __.” Describe the differences you'd notice in a well-rested, balanced version of you. This vision can be motivating – it's not a fantasy, it's something that can gradually become reality as you experiment with what works for you. What part of that vision could you start working towards now?Take your time with these questions – you might even revisit them periodically, because your needs can change over time or in different seasons of life. The purpose is to increase your self-awareness and to spark ideas for adjustments that can lead to better energy management.ConclusionWe've covered a lot in this episode, so let's briefly recap: The simple “social battery” idea doesn't quite cut it for AuDHD brains because our energy drains on multiple fronts – masking, sensory overwhelm, executive function effort, chronic stress, and missing our internal signals. Just “resting” in a generic sense often isn't enough; we need the right kind of rest for the right kind of tired. The physiology of our brains and bodies explains why this exhaustion is real and not laziness. And the good news is, there are strategies to help – from mixing up the types of rest you get, to planning recovery time, to advocating for your needs and learning to read your body's signals better.I hope you found some validation in this – you're not alone in feeling this exhaustion, and you're not failing when rest doesn't magically fix it. It's a complex issue, but you can make progress by understanding your unique energy profile. Even small tweaks – like using earplugs in a noisy place or taking a 10-minute brain break – can yield noticeable benefits. Remember, you deserve to feel restored and it is possible with patience and practice.Thank you for joining me today on Authentically ADHD. I'm proud of you for taking this time to learn about how to better care for yourself. If this episode resonated with you, feel free to share it with friends or anyone who might be running on empty and not know why. And if you have your own tips or experiences with the “social battery” and AuDHD life, I'd love to hear them – you can reach out on my socials or leave a comment.Paid subscribers get the downloadable “AuDHD Social Battery Decoder Kit” — a printable, fillable workbook that turns today's episode into actual tools you can use when you're fried.If you've ever rested and still felt exhausted, it's not because you're doing rest “wrong.” It's because your brain wasn't depleted by “socializing” alone — it was depleted by masking, sensory load, executive function taxes, stress activation, and not noticing your needs until your system was running on fumes.This kit helps you:identify what actually drained youmatch the right kind of rest to the system that's depletedbuild simple recovery ritualsuse copy/paste scripts when your brain goes blankplan your week like an AuDHD nervous system deservesIt's practical. It's kind. And it's designed for brains that hate homework.Until next time, be kind to yourself, pay attention to those batteries, and remember: rest isn't a reward, it's a necessity. Stay authentic and we will talk soon!This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Paid Bonus at end of this: Get full access to carmen_authenticallyadhd at carmenauthenticallyadhd.substack.com/subscribe

The negative emotions that can accompany motherhood take many women by surprise. In this episode of the Awaken Your Wise Woman podcast, host Elizabeth Cush and Jess Althoff talk about how highly sensitive women can manage the overwhelm. “We are breathing all the time, but most of us aren't breathing correctly, and most of us aren't using our breath in ways that are beneficial to us.”  — Jess AlthoffExhaustion. Frustration. Overwhelm. Self-doubt. Anxiety. Guilt. Irritability. Even rage. No matter how much you wanted to be a mother, you may have been blindsided by the negative emotions that nobody warned you about. In this episode of Awaken Your Wise Woman, host Biz Cush, LCPC, a licensed professional therapist, founder of Progression Counseling in Maryland and Delaware, and soul guide for highly sensitive women, welcomes Jess Althoff, author of the blog “Raising Slow,” for a talk about postpartum anxiety and rage, and the importance of self-care techniques like meditation and breathwork in managing mental health. They also share their own experiences, as well as practical tips and techniques that can help mothers and other highly sensitive women get in touch with their bodies, reduce irritability, You can find the full show notes and resources here.Support the showI hope you enjoyed the show! You can also follow me here: Instagram YouTube Facebook

If you're curious as to whether you have any stored emotions or trauma that might be causing your illness, preventing you from achieving your goals, or even just showing up as the best, authentic version of yourself, I invite you to take my free Stored Emotions and Trauma QuizWhat if the heavy cloud you're dragging around is actually your next lesson trying to get your attention?In this episode, I'm getting real about the funk I've been in for the last few months and what it's taught me about these intense transition periods. I've been moving through a season of irritability, misalignment, and low energy while still holding an inner knowing that something good is on the other side. Reflection and curiosity helped me start asking what I can learn here, what needs to be seen, and why certain patterns keep repeating.What shifts when you move from “why is this happening to me” into “how is this happening for me,” even when fear and frustration are loud? You'll see why you can't muscle through these seasons alone and how having a trusted team around you can hold space, reflect truth, and remind you you're not the only one feeling this way. You'll Learn:[00:00] Introduction[02:44] Why emotional fog can signal a new layer of growth[05:21] What happens when curiosity replaces self-judgment[08:56] How to see the lesson behind repeating patterns[12:38] Why shifting to “for me, not to me” changes everything[16:47] What opens when you name fear without shame[19:33] How approaching discomfort with love and grace softens resistance[23:12] The reason you can't integrate shadow work alone[27:55] What support from the right people makes possible[31:18] How allowing others to hold space moves healing forwardFind More From Dr. Stephanie Davis:Dr. Stephanie Davis | WebsiteQuantum Rx | InstagramQuantum Rx | Skool

If you've been snapping at people you love, feeling angry for no reason, or like you're becoming someone you barely recognize, this episode explains why. Perimenopause rage is a physiological response to shifting hormones, mineral depletion, and decades of over-functioning.  In this episode, Claudia breaks down what's driving the emotional volatility, why traditional advice doesn't help, and what it actually takes to feel calm and grounded again. In this episode, you'll learn: The surprising hormonal shifts that trigger sudden rage in perimenopause Why low progesterone and fluctuating estrogen wreak havoc on your mood How cortisol dysregulation makes you more reactive to stress The connection between mineral depletion, burnout, and emotional overwhelm Why rage often shows up at home and impacts your closest relationships The steps you can take to feel more stable, supported, and like yourself again   [WATCH ON YOUTUBE] ________________________________________________________ **BLACK FRIDAY SALE EXTENDED** Save $100 on a Perimenopause Clarity Session with me - a focused, personalized way to help you understand what's really going on in your body. Limited time only, limited spots, sale ends 12/15.   Here's what's included: ✔ A personalized review of your health, one lab, and your symptoms ✔ Clear, customized next steps to start feeling better ASAP  ✔ Opportunity to get your questions answered — without the overwhelm   And because I know many women want answers now but plan to commit more deeply in the New Year, I'm adding a special bonus:  

I tell my money coaching clients all the time that if their health isn't right, it doesn't matter how great their money is—they won't be able to make the most of it. You could have a six-figure salary and a robust investment portfolio, but if you're mentally and emotionally depleted from constantly putting everyone else first, none of it brings you peace or fulfillment. Mental health is something that doesn't get anywhere near enough attention, especially for women who are taught from a young age to be caregivers, nurturers, and people-pleasers. It impacts so many areas of our lives…our relationships, our career decisions, our spending habits, our ability to set boundaries…and deserves to always be a priority, not an afterthought. That's why I couldn't be more excited to welcome licensed marriage and family therapist Dr. Jamila Holcomb to the show today. With over a decade of experience helping individuals and families, plus her work mentoring future therapists at Florida State University, Dr. Holcomb brings invaluable insight into the people-pleasing patterns that keep so many women stuck. In this conversation, we're diving deep into how women can stop people pleasing and start prioritizing their own happiness, and how their mental health (and even their finances) will benefit as a result. As we look to close out another year, make sure you're starting 2026 with a renewed sense of self-love, worthiness, and healthy boundaries.   Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode: Recognizing subtle signs you're stuck in people-pleasing patterns The connection between people-pleasing, burnout, and mental health How childhood and cultural expectations shape caregiving behaviors Practical first steps to start prioritizing your own needs without guilt The role of self-worth in breaking free from people-pleasing How people-pleasing shows up in money habits and financial boundaries Setting healthy boundaries for emotional, mental, and financial wellness Self-reflection practices to build self-trust as you enter the new year The Mental Health-Money Connection: People-pleasing doesn't just drain you emotionally—it shows up in your bank account too. From overspending on others to avoiding financial boundaries, learn how prioritizing yourself mentally leads to better financial decisions and true wealth.   Here's a glance at this episode: [03:00] Dr. Holcomb's Journey: Over a decade in mental health therapy and what drew her to this field. [07:45] Irritability is a common symptom prescribed to women and Jamila believes it's connected to women overextending themselves. [17:57] Reclaiming Personal Time: Creating a list of neglected activities and how to reintegrate them. [30:08] Overwhelm is personal and systemic. It's important to remember that empowering yourself is a start to impacting the overall system.  [36:21] Money and Self-Worth: How finances become tools for justifying worth and gaining love through people-pleasing.   Rate, Review, & Follow: Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life! To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, please make sure you're subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!   Resources mentioned in this episode: Follow Jamila on Instagram and TikTok Visit Jamila's website Learn about Raya's Financial Focus Coaching Program Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

The Hidden Cost of High Performance: Why Overworking Keeps You Disconnected From YourselfAre you constantly pushing, striving, and performing — yet still feeling overwhelmed, drained, or on the edge of burnout? In this episode of The Restored Minds Show, licensed therapist Matt Codde, LCSW breaks down how “high performance” can secretly turn into emotional avoidance…and the real cost of living that way.You'll learn why overworking becomes a socially praised escape, how emotional suppression impacts your health, and what steps you can take to reconnect with yourself before your body forces you to stop.If you're a high-achieving professional, parent, creative, or leader who's burning the candle at both ends, this episode is a grounded reminder: productivity can't replace presence. And running from your emotions always catches up.

Brain fog, mood swings, and irritability… if that sounds familiar, trust me, you're not alone. Between work, social life, and just trying to adult, it's easy for our moods to feel all over the place. In this episode, we're getting into why that happens and what you can do about it. We'll talk about how stress, seasonal changes, and even subtle nutrient gaps can impact your brain chemistry and emotional well-being. I'll walk you through top key nutrients that support mood and cognitive function! Plus, I'll share my favorite lifestyle strategies that actually work. LISTEN UP!  The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women's Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women's nutrition, body awareness, and self-care.  Stay Connected: A research review on the food - mood connection: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924224425002419 Follow us on social media: Instagram: @flourishheights / @valerieagyeman / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com Say hello! Email us at hello@flourishheights.com Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter Visit our website: www.flourishheights.com Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!  

C4 irritability, 6pm no phones, Election Day, 75 HARD Day 33

Pastor Mark Hernandez on the respectable sins of impatience and irritability.

Do you ever feel like you're holding it all together on the outside—but underneath, you're simmering?You're not losing your mind. You're likely holding unprocessed anger.In this episode, we're diving into one of the most misunderstood emotions—especially for women: anger.For years, I didn't even realize I was angry. I told myself I was “fine,” “chill,” “rational.” But under all that composure was a nervous system running on tension and suppressed emotion. And here's the truth: when anger isn't processed, it doesn't disappear—it just leaks out as resentment, irritability, control, or passive aggression.You'll learn: ✔️ The neuroscience of anger—what's happening in your brain and body when you suppress versus express it ✔️ How unprocessed anger quietly drains your energy, shrinks your window of tolerance, and impacts your relationships ✔️ The four ways suppressed anger most commonly shows up (and how to spot them) ✔️ Practical, body-based ways to process and release anger safely—from movement and sound to prayer and breathwork

This episode of the Tactical Living Podcast, hosted by Coach Ashlie Walton and Sergeant Clint Walton, confronts one of the hardest truths in the first responder culture: admitting when you're burned out (Amazon Affiliate) feels impossible. For police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and military professionals, the job demands strength, endurance, and resilience. But behind the uniform, countless responders are silently suffering under the weight of burnout. The stigma around asking for help and the fear of being seen as weak often keep these struggles hidden until they become overwhelming. We'll explore why it's so difficult to say “I can't do this,” how burnout shows up in everyday life, and what can be done to recognize it and recover before it takes too heavy a toll. 5 Examples of Burnout in First Responders Emotional Numbness on and off Duty Calls that once stirred compassion now feel routine, leaving you detached from others and yourself. Irritability and Short Temper at Home The smallest frustrations turn into arguments, often spilling onto your spouse or kids. Chronic Fatigue Despite “Enough” Sleep No amount of rest seems to recharge your body or mind. Loss of Motivation or Purpose What once felt like a calling now feels like just another grind you're trying to survive. Isolation From Family and Peers Pulling away from relationships to avoid having to explain or reveal how much you're struggling. 5 Ways to Combat Burnout Normalize the Conversation Start talking about burnout openly—especially with peers—so it's no longer taboo to admit. Build Decompression Routines Create post-shift rituals that help your mind and body leave the job at the door. Use Professional and Peer Resources Counselors, chaplains, and peer support teams exist to provide culturally competent care. Reconnect With Your “Why” Revisit the reason you started serving in the first place—it can reignite purpose when the job feels endless. Invest in Life Beyond the Badge Hobbies, fitness, friendships, faith, and family are anchors that remind you of who you are outside of work.

Checkout ASUS ExpertBook P Series: ⁠⁠https://www.flipkart.com/bbd-eb-sale-at-store⁠⁠Guest Suggestion Form: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forms.gle/bnaeY3FpoFU9ZjA47⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Disclaimer: This video is intended solely for educational purposes and opinions shared by the guest are his personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the video. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices. The media used in this video are solely for informational purposes and belongs to their respective owners.Order 'Build, Don't Talk' (in English) here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/eCfijRu⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Order 'Build Don't Talk' (in Hindi) here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/4wZISO0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Our Whatsapp Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaokF5x0bIdi3Qn9ef2J⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe To Our Other YouTube Channels:-⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@rajshamaniclips⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@RajShamani.Shorts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

➡️ ➡️ > SAVE YOUR SPOT: "FROM ON EDGE TO AT EASE" WORKSHOP < ⬅️ ⬅️If you've been feeling anxious, on edge, or emotionally reactive — there's a reason for that. And no, it's not because you're doing anything wrong.In this short episode, I'm walking you through:The real reason you feel stuck in go-mode (hint: it's not just stress)Why your body overrides your best intentionsWhat you actually need to start feeling regulated againHow to join me live for From On Edge to At Ease — my free nervous system workshop happening todayYou don't need more willpower. You need a different kind of support — one that starts with safety in the body.We go live today at 1pm ET. Come join us at michellegrosser.com/workshopRelated Episodes to Explore:Previous Episode4 Game-Changing Strategies for Nervous System Regulation4 Overlooked Symptoms of Dysregulation That Aren't Actually “Normal”5 Daily Habits That are Dysregulating Your Nervous SystemOverwhelm, Brain Fog, and Irritability? 10 Ways a Dysregulated Nervous System Shows Up in Your Body5 Somatic Techniques to Regulate When You're Feeling Overwhelmed

Hey humans, we're continuing our #WorkWell series, all about mental health in the workplace. In this episode, we're getting real about the difference between just being tired and being truly, deeply depleted.  I know that feeling because I was just there myself. After we recorded our last episode on burnout, I felt almost out of my body, completely depleted and neurologically dysregulated. The only thing that could help was true rest and disconnection. So for this week, I have an exercise for you. It's an ask to take just five minutes every day to journal and really tune in to how you're feeling. Ask yourself: Do you feel recharged after a break? What do you actually enjoy right now? How often are you feeling irritable or numb? The goal isn't to fix it immediately, but just to recognize where you are. It's about figuring out if you're just tired, or if you've crossed over into depletion. Take this week to just check in with yourself.  I hope you'll join me on this journey to work well. With light and love, we'll see you soon. Stacie More episodes at StacieBaird.com.

Welcome to the Celestial Insights Podcast, the show that brings the stars down to Earth! Each week, astrologer, coach, and intuitive Celeste Brooks of Astrology by Celeste will be your guide. Her website is astrologybyceleste.com.  

To receive my free and daily newsletter, go to: www.SmartDigestion.com Would you like to schedule a consultation? Call 586-685-2222 To try Dr. Christine's Smart Carb-45 for go to: www.smartcarb45.com To work directly with Dr. Christine: https://gutcall.thedigestiondoc.com/consult

Today, we talk about homestead burnout, why many new homesteaders feel tempted (and do) give up after only a year or three, and what to do about it. We also cover our usual Monday segments. Featured Event August 23: Wild Edible Walk with Kerry Brown of Strong Roots Resources – 8:30 AM before Curds and Connection at the Holler Homestead. Sponsor 1 Strong Roots Resources – Permaculture consulting, education, and more. Sponsor 2 AgoristTaxAdvice.com/LFTN – Helping entrepreneurs, homesteaders, and freedom-minded folks handle taxes the smart way. Tales from the Prepper Pantry Setting up Basecamp for long-term storage   Road food from the pantry   Fall garden focus   Pushing for more dried herbs   Frugality Tip From Margo: Before making a large purchase, check multiple sites. Margo scored a $100 gift card from Northern Tool by ordering online (over $1000 purchase), then picking up in-store. A little research can literally pay off. Operation Independence Adding value can make all the difference — like offering a Wild Edible Walk add-on for the cheese class. Main Topic of the Day: How to Fix Homestead Burnout Discussion with Tactical about my dead garden bed   Why so many homesteads give up after 1–3 years   Striving for perfection   Using 1 person to do the work of 2, 3, or even 4   Instagram homesteads vs. reality   The same reasons we burn out on anything   The homestead is always there — and you live there   Why people get into homesteading   The homesteader's curse   My 140 tomato story   If you're not on a homestead yet, what you can do   How to avoid homestead burnout   Create a space where you can truly let go and reset   Have other interests or hobbies   Adjust expectations before you start   Create goals that aren't fear-based   Learn to spot burnout early:   Constant fatigue   Irritability or loss of excitement   Letting maintenance slide   Avoiding certain areas or projects   More arguments or isolation   Spending more time on screens than outside   Self-check questions:   When's the last time I felt genuinely excited about a homestead task?   Am I doing chores because I want to or just because they have to be done?   Have I been skipping or half-doing maintenance I used to stay on top of?   Am I avoiding certain areas, animals, or projects because they feel overwhelming?   How to address burnout if you're already there   Make space to get away for 2–3 days and stay off social media   Take a true day of rest   Move your body   Assess eating and drinking habits   Follow homesteaders who show their failures and lessons learned   Scale back without feeling like you've failed   The world, and we, are messy. Do three things anyway and see how far you can go in a month, then 2 months, then a year! Make it a great week.   GUYS! Don't forget about the cookbook, Cook With What You Have by Nicole Sauce and Mama Sauce.    Community Follow me on Nostr: npub1u2vu695j5wfnxsxpwpth2jnzwxx5fat7vc63eth07dez9arnrezsdeafsv Mewe Group: https://mewe.com/join/lftn Telegram Group: https://t.me/LFTNGroup Odysee: https://odysee.com/$/invite/@livingfree:b Resources Membership Sign Up Holler Roast Coffee Harvest Right Affiliate Link  

You know better—but you're still pushing past your limits.You've read the books. You've blocked off the calendar. You know what to do.But somehow, the burnout keeps creeping back in.Sound familiar?This week on Alive & Well, we're talking about a tough truth:Sometimes, the very habits that make you high-performing are the same ones burning you out.In this episode, I'm sharing 6 things I stopped doing in order to actually heal my nervous system—not just manage stress better on the surface. These are subtle but powerful shifts I made after my own burnout in 2017—and they've changed the way I live, work, and lead.You'll learn: 

What do you think of this episode? Do you have any topics you'd like me to cover?We all loose our cool sometimes. but teenagers can find it particularly challenging to stay calm or calm down when enraged. It takes self-awareness and skill, and a level of brain development that just isn't there for some of them.One listener contacted us for help  with her son who is being goaded by friends at school and getting into trouble for losing his temper. We talk about the brain development stage that makes this so prevalent in teens, and discuss top tips for how she can support him in managing his emotions. www.teenagersuntangled.com EXCELLENT WORKSHEET:https://www.therapistaid.com/worksheets/coping-skills-angerHere are five key tips for handling a teenager with explosive anger:Normalize the emotion: Help your teen understand that anger is a natural signal, not a problem. Explain the brain changes happening during adolescence that can make emotions intense.Create a safe space: Provide a designated area where they can express anger without judgment. This could be a room, a punching bag, or a place to play loud music and release emotions.Develop a trigger awareness strategy: Work together to identify anger triggers. Create a log to track what situations, comments, or environments set off their anger, and develop coping mechanisms.Practice emotional regulation tools: Teach breathing techniques, use a code word (like "Flint") to signal when they're becoming overwhelmed, and help them recognize physical signs of anger building up.Maintain a supportive relationship: Focus on positive reinforcement, listen without trying to immediately fix the problem, and consistently show love and understanding. Avoid punishment during angry outbursts and discuss strategies calmly when they're calm.RESOURCES USED:Yale Medicine. (n.d.). Anger, Irritability and Aggression in Kids. [online] Available at: https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/anger-issues-in-children-and-teens#:~:text=For%20children%2C%20anger%20issues%20often.Myler, C. (2020). Understanding teen boys' anger. [online] Maggie Dent. Available at: https://www.maggiedent.com/blog/understanding-teen-boys-anger/.‌Russell, D.L. (2023). Anger Management Techniques for Teenagers: A Parent Guide. [online] They Are The Future. Available at: https://www.theyarethefuture.co.uk/anger-management-techniques-for-teenagers/ [Accessed 12 Jun. 2023]Support the showThank you so much for your support. Please hit the follow button if you like the podcast, and share it with anyone who might benefit. You can review us on Apple podcasts by going to the show page, scrolling down to the bottom where you can click on a star then you can leave your message. I don't have medical training so please seek the advice of a specialist if you're not coping. My email is teenagersuntangled@gmail.com And my website has a blog, searchable episodes, and ways to contact me:www.teenagersuntangled.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/teenagersuntangled/Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/teenagersuntangled/You can reach Susie at www.amindful-life.co.uk

Today, Noah is joined by Lead Pastor Kennon Vaughan for a follow-up discussion on the respectable sin of impatience and irritability, which Kennon addressed this past Sunday. As a reminder, each week this summer, the team will interview the pastor or resident who preached the previous Sunday, diving deeper into the specific respectable sin and biblical text that he covered. This will be an excellent opportunity to identify and explore "hidden thorns" in your life, as we prepare to revisit HPC in the fall.Respectable Sins, by Jerry Bridges: https://amzn.to/44RQ4ATHow People Change, by Paul David Tripp and Timothy Lane: https://amzn.to/4dzOeGXIn case you missed it, please see below for links to the figures mentioned in previous episodes:Figure 6.1: https://bit.ly/42jsR7vFigure 6.2: https://bit.ly/3Ee1d3TFigure 6.3: https://bit.ly/3G0fnq4X-Ray Questions: https://bit.ly/4jg216Q

You've probably heard the phrase “the body keeps the score”—but what does that actually mean?If you've ever dealt with chronic tightness, gut issues, jaw clenching, or exhaustion that just won't quit… your body might be holding on to more than stress. It might be storing trauma.In this episode, we're diving into the science of somatic memory—how your nervous system encodes unprocessed trauma and stress into your tissues, and how that stored tension can quietly sabotage your energy, focus, and well-being.You'll learn: 

You've read the books. You've tried the deep breaths. You've told yourself, “Just calm down.”But when overwhelm hits? Your body's still on edge—clenched jaw, tense shoulders, short fuse.Here's the truth: you can't out-think a dysregulated nervous system.Because when your brain is flooded with stress hormones, logic and willpower go offline.In this episode of Alive & Well, we're unpacking what really happens in your body when you're overwhelmed—and why somatic tools (not more hacks or habits) are the key to feeling calm, grounded, and in control again.

Are you a serial snacker? Is there ALWAYS room for dessert? Do you find yourself feeling hungry throughout the day, despite just eating? Or maybe you notice reaching for a bag of chips whenever you're feeling stressed? Did you know that there are actually different types of hunger that can shape our eating habits? Spoiler: You're NOT broken!Welcome to Salad with a Side of Fries, the podcast where we dig into the surprising truths about how we eat and why. Today, host and health coach Jenn Trepeck is tackling a topic that's far more complex than it seems: hunger. We're going to explore the fascinating world of hedonic hunger, the kind driven by pure pleasure, and how it can often override our natural homeostatic hunger, that biological signal that tells us we actually need fuel. We'll also explore how processed foods significantly impact our hunger signals and strategies for managing each type. Get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about your cravings and your plate, because by the end of this episode, you'll have a whole new understanding of what it means to truly be hungry. The Salad With a Side of Fries podcast is hosted by Jenn Trepeck, who discusses wellness and weight loss in real life, clearing up myths, misinformation, and bad science surrounding our nutrition knowledge and the food industry. Let's dive into wellness and weight loss for real life, including drinking, eating out, and skipping the grocery store.IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Hedonic hunger, driven by dopamine, can override the biological drive of homeostatic hunger(06:48) Hunger is not a moral failing, and how to identify homeostatic hunger(12:01) Cravings versus hunger, and studies show high nutrient density diets reduce hunger pains and cravings(16:58) Is it hunger, or is it restriction, and hedonic hunger involves eating for pleasure, triggered by ultra-processed foods or stress(22:47) Controlling hedonic hunger(27:35) Emotional hunger is eating to cope with emotions, and recognizing emotional eating is key to managing it(33:50) Conditioned hunger is defined as a learned response to stimuli or situations(37:55) Hidden hunger is defined as cellular micronutrient deficiency, often from processed foods(43:00) Toxic hunger is defined as discomfort from processed food toxins(47:34) Nutrient-dense, whole foods emphasized as key to balancing all hunger typesKEY TAKEAWAYS:Hunger is multifaceted and often extends beyond the need for energy. There are several types of hunger—hedonic, emotional, conditioned, hidden, and toxic—that are distinct from basic physiological (homeostatic) hunger. This indicates that a complex interplay of pleasure can drive eating, emotions, learned responses, and even cellular deficiencies or toxic exposures, rather than just an empty stomach.Understanding the various drivers of hunger is crucial for managing eating behaviors effectively. Recognizing whether hunger is due to a biological need, an emotional state, a learned trigger, or even a cellular deficiency allows individuals to address the root cause more effectively. For example, emotional eating requires different strategies than homeostatic hunger.Food quality has a significant impact on hunger and overall well-being. Eating Nutrient-dense foods can reduce true hunger pains and cravings, while processed foods contribute to "hidden" and "toxic" hunger due to nutrient deficiencies and the presence of toxins. This underscores the importance of whole, unprocessed foods not just for satiety, but also for preventing various forms of discomfort and health issues often mistaken for hunger.QUOTES: (07:13) "The body only has so many ways to communicate with us." - Jenn Trepeck(14:21) “Eating nutrient-dense foods minimizes hunger pains." - Jenn Trepeck(21:06) “Hedonic hunger is when people get into that shame and blame and beat themselves up.” - Jenn Trepeck(31:12) “One of the best questions my therapist ever asked me was, where am I not being fed?" - Jenn TrepeckRESOURCES:Become A Member of Salad with a Side of FriesJenn's Free Menu PlanA Salad With a Side of FriesA Salad With A Side Of Fries MerchA Salad With a Side of Fries InstagramNutrition Nugget: HungerThe Bulls-Eye of Change

Estrogen & Histamine Brain Fog & Irritability Hidden Hormone Trap | Podcast #454

If you're waking up tired, snapping at everyone by noon, forgetting basic things, or constantly overstimulated… it might not be your schedule, your supplements, or your mindset.It might be your nervous system.You're not just “off.”Your body is trying to tell you something.In this episode, we're unpacking what nervous system dysregulation actually is—and how it silently hijacks your focus, energy, mood, digestion, hormones, and more.If you've ever asked yourself: