By Claire Tune, Counsellor and Supervisor in Godalming, Surrey
Let’s be honest… sometimes life simply feels too much.
Between work, family, relationships and the constant demands of daily life, it’s easy to feel like you’re spinning plates… trying your best to keep everything balanced, while quietly feeling close to breaking point inside. Even when everything looks fine on the outside, stress, anxiety or emotional exhaustion can take hold and make it hard to feel grounded or at peace.
If you’re reading this and recognising yourself, please know you’re not alone. Many adults I work with in counselling tell me they’ve reached a point where life feels overwhelming, but they’re unsure how to begin finding calm again.
When Life Feels Overwhelming
Stress and anxiety can show up in different ways. Some people describe a racing mind that won’t switch off at night. Others notice tension in their body, a tight chest, a heavy stomach or headaches that come with every deadline. You might feel tearful, restless or simply “not yourself.”
Research shows that stress can trigger physical symptoms such as:
- Headaches or dizziness
- Muscle tension or pain
- Stomach problems
- Chest pain or a faster heartbeat
- Feeling lightheaded or fainting
- Sweating or trembling
- Nausea or loss of appetite
And sometimes, there’s a sense of guilt that follows:
“I should be coping better.”
But the truth is, it’s perfectly human to struggle. Life transitions, whether that’s changes at work, family pressures, illness or loss can all leave us feeling off balance. These feelings are your body’s natural signal that something needs attention and care, not something to be ashamed of.
How Counselling Can Help You Find Calm
Counselling offers a safe and supportive space to pause, reflect and begin understanding what’s behind your feelings of stress or anxiety. It’s not about giving advice or judging your situation, but about helping you explore what’s going on beneath the surface at a pace that feels right for you.
In my counselling practice in Godalming and online, I work with adults who are navigating:
- Work-related stress or burnout
- Life transitions and uncertainty
- Anxiety, worry or panic
- Low self-esteem and confidence
- Grief and loss
- Relationship pressures
Together, we focus on practical coping tools, such as grounding exercises, relaxation techniques and mindful awareness while also exploring the deeper emotional patterns that might be keeping you stuck. Over time, therapy helps you rediscover your inner calm, strengthen your resilience and reconnect with a sense of balance.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Reaching out for help can feel daunting, but it’s also one of the most empowering choices you can make for yourself. If you’re exploring counselling in Surrey or online and would like to see how therapy might support you, I offer a free, introductory call to help you decide if it feels like the right fit.
If you’re ready to begin finding calm when life feels overwhelming, you’re warmly invited to get in touch.
FAQS
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
If you’ve been feeling stressed, anxious or unable to switch off and talking to friends or family doesn’t feel enough, counselling can help. It offers a confidential, professional space to unpack what’s been weighing on you and explore new ways to cope.
What happens in a counselling session?
Each session is a safe, private conversation focused on you. We talk about what’s been happening, how it’s affecting you and what you’d like to change or understand better. You set the pace, there’s no pressure or judgment.
Can I have counselling online if I’m not in Godalming?
Yes. I offer both in-person sessions in Godalming and online counselling for clients across Surrey and beyond. Online therapy can be just as effective and allows you to access support from the comfort of your own home.
