Life is full of ups and downs, and you can’t be on your A-game 100% of the time.
While lapsing on healthy habits like exercising, eating well, and looking after your mental health isn’t so bad if it only happens occasionally, when it becomes an ongoing pattern, it’s bound to lead to bigger issues. Here are some early signs that your life is veering off course — just recognising that it’s happening is often enough to help you steer things back in the right direction.
1. Your sleep is all over the place.
One of the first signs of an unhealthy routine is poor sleep. Whether you’re staying up too late, waking up exhausted, or tossing and turning, disrupted sleep can impact every aspect of your life. Prioritise a consistent bedtime routine to improve rest and overall wellness. There’s a reason sleep deprivation is often used as a torture method — it can really mess you up!
2. You’re skipping meals or overeating.
When life feels chaotic, eating habits are often one of the first things to suffer. Skipping meals or turning to junk food for comfort can leave you feeling sluggish and irritable. Focus on balanced meals, even if it’s something simple, to fuel your body properly.
3. Your energy levels are consistently low.
Feeling tired all the time is a clear sign something’s off — it could be due to poor nutrition, lack of exercise, or unaddressed stress. Incorporating small changes like a short walk or hydrating more throughout the day can help boost your energy levels.
4. Your mind feels cluttered and scattered.
Struggling to focus or feeling mentally overwhelmed can indicate rising stress or burnout. If your thoughts are racing, or you’re easily distracted, it’s time to slow down. Try journaling or meditation to clear your head and regain mental clarity.
5. You’re avoiding social interactions.
When life feels overwhelming, it’s tempting to retreat from friends and family. However, isolating yourself can deepen feelings of loneliness and disconnection. Reaching out to someone you trust, even for a short chat, can help you reconnect and feel supported.
6. You’re relying on unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Turning to excessive drinking, overeating, or mindless scrolling on your phone to escape stress is a sign your coping strategies may not be serving you. Identify healthier outlets, like exercise, reading, or creative hobbies, to process your emotions more constructively.
7. You’re neglecting basic self-care.
If showering, brushing your teeth, or keeping your living space tidy feels like a monumental effort, it’s a red flag. These small acts of care are foundational to your mental health (as well as your physical health, of course). Start with one manageable task to build momentum and regain a sense of routine.
8. Your relationships feel strained.
Constant arguments, irritability, or feeling disconnected from loved ones can signal underlying stress or unmet needs. Reflect on what’s causing the tension and communicate openly with those around you to rebuild harmony in your relationships.
9. You’re avoiding responsibilities.
When you start procrastinating on tasks like paying bills, responding to emails, or tidying up, it might indicate you’re feeling overwhelmed. Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and tackle them one at a time to regain control.
10. You’re experiencing frequent mood swings.
If you find yourself easily irritated, sad, or angry without clear triggers, it’s a sign your emotional health needs attention. Journaling, therapy, or simply talking to someone you trust can help you process your emotions and regain stability.
11. You’re spending too much time on screens.
Whether it’s binge-watching shows, endlessly scrolling on social media, or playing video games for hours, excessive screen time can leave you feeling drained. Set time limits for your devices and replace some screen time with activities that energise you, like reading, cooking, or getting outdoors.
12. You’re not moving your body enough.
When life feels busy or overwhelming, exercise often falls to the wayside. However, staying active is crucial for both physical and mental health. Start small—whether it’s a 10-minute stretch or a short walk—and gradually build movement back into your routine.
13. You feel disconnected from your goals or purpose.
If you’re struggling to find motivation or feel like you’re just going through the motions, it’s a sign to reassess your priorities. Take time to reflect on what truly matters to you and set small, achievable goals to reignite your sense of purpose. Recognising these signs early can help you make small but meaningful changes to get your life back on track. Focus on one area at a time and give yourself grace as you work toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
