When life feels too much, it’s not just in your head, your brain might actually be overloaded. Naturopath Mel from NatMed in Fremantle joined a recent conversation to unpack this modern struggle and share some tips to feel more balanced.

Why Do We Feel So Frazzled?

“We’re being asked to make way more decisions than we used to,” said Mel. “It’s like we’re constantly bombarded from work, social media, emails.”

Mel explained that even small daily stressors can build up fast. A bit of traffic, a tantrum in the car, or a messy bedroom all add layers to our mental load.

“We end up feeling frazzled,” she said. “And we don’t always realise how much those little things are affecting us.”

The Hidden Impact of Decision Fatigue

Did you know the average adult makes around 35,000 conscious decisions a day? “That doesn’t even count the subconscious ones,” Mel added. “Your brain is working overtime.”

This explains why many of us scroll Netflix endlessly and never hit ‘play.’ “People are just exhausted from making choices,” she said.

What Brain Overload Looks Like

Feeling forgetful? Snapping at someone for no reason? Walking into a room and forgetting why? “These are signs,” Mel said. “It’s not just stress it’s an overloaded nervous system.”

Other clues include:

  • Sudden bursts of tears or anger
  • Struggling to focus
  • Extreme tiredness or sleep crashes after work

“It’s all part of being human,” said Mel. “But it’s also your brain crying out for rest.”

What Can You Do About It?

Mel offered a list of simple yet powerful steps.

1. Clear the Clutter

Unsubscribe from junk emails. Tidy your workspace. Clean your sleep environment.

“It’s about recalibrating,” Mel said. “You need space, physically and mentally, to feel calm.”

2. Take a Step Back

Feeling overwhelmed? Pause.

“Count to five. Take a deep breath. Step away if you need to,” Mel advised. “That break helps you respond rationally rather than react emotionally.”

3. Sleep and Rest Matter

Radio host Doug shared how he often sleeps after work.

“I love the job,” he said. “But it’s mentally exhausting. I just need to reset.”

Sleep gives the brain time to heal, process thoughts, and prepare for the next challenge.

Exercise Helps More Than You Think

“Exercise reduces stress hormones and boosts focus,” said Mel. “It also supports better sleep and improves your mood.”

You don’t have to hit the gym hard. Walking in nature, dancing, or exercising with friends all work.

“It’s about what helps you feel better,” she added. “For some, it’s noise and sweat. For others, it’s peace and connection.”

People Can Drain or Energise You

“Spend time with those who lift you,” Mel advised. “Some people help us feel lighter. Others don’t.”

Ask yourself how you feel after spending time with someone. “It’s okay to set boundaries if you need to,” she said.

“Friends aren’t your therapists they’re just doing life alongside you.”

Can Supplements Help?

Yes but not all are equal. Mel recommended:

  • Magnesium
    “It supports the stress response and improves sleep,” she said.
  • L-Theanine
    “It relaxes the mind without making you sleepy,” she explained.
    It’s especially helpful if coffee gives you jitters.

Look for around 200–400mg per day, ideally in capsule form for potency.

Takeaway

If your brain feels scrambled, it’s not just you. Modern life is fast, noisy, and demanding. But you can take small steps to protect your mental clarity.

“Recalibrate,” said Mel. “Clear space, breathe, move your body, and find what works for you.”