Ask Jigsaw: Everything makes me burst into tears

Monday, 22 March 2021

Why does every little thing make me burst into tears and start overthinking and finding more reasons to keep crying and not being able to stop.

-Nanabana

Hi Nanabanan,

I’m sorry to hear that every little thing is making you burst into tears. That sounds difficult, so thank you for reaching out to us. We hear from lots of young people who experience similar things, so I know your question will help others, too!

Emma

Jigsaw clinician

Remembering to make time for the things that relieve some stress or make us feel good is really important.

Dealing with stress

We all have a certain capacity for dealing with life’s stresses. Think of it like a big bucket filling up with water. Some things add to the bucket- they might be small drops or big gushes- but they fill up the bucket all the same. When our bucket reaches the top, it only takes something small to make it overflow. The good news is, there are some strategies or activities that act like taps, and drain the bucket.

For example, talking to a friend, getting some exercise, practicing mindfulness or making time for a hobby. Sometimes we forget to turn on the taps, and let the water in the bucket keep building up. Remembering to make time for the things that relieve some stress or make us feel good is really important.

Emma

Jigsaw clinician

Once we become aware of those thoughts, we can put things in place to help manage it.

Managing feelings

You mentioned that when you feel upset you start overthinking which makes it hard to stop crying. Noticing when you are doing this is a helpful first step. Once we become aware of those thoughts, we can put things in place to help manage it. You might find this exercise called Brain Drain helpful.

If you would like to talk more about ways to manage how you’re feeling, you’re very welcome to request a chat on our Live Chat portal.

Thanks again for reaching out.

Take care

Emma