Self-Care Struggles: Why It’s Hard & How to Start Anyway
We hear about self-care everywhere—from social media to wellness blogs to workplace posters. We're told to “take care of ourselves” and “make time for rest.” But for many of us, self-care doesn’t feel that simple.
Maybe you’ve tried but can’t stay consistent. Maybe you don’t even know where to start. Or maybe the idea of putting your own needs first feels... uncomfortable.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Struggling with self-care is incredibly common—and completely human.
Let’s explore why self-care can feel so hard, and how to approach it in a way that actually works for you.
Why Is Self-Care So Difficult?
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths or spa days—it’s about tending to your emotional, physical, and mental needs with intention. But even knowing that, it’s still hard. Here’s why:
1. You're Used to Putting Others First
Many people grow up learning that taking care of others is more important than taking care of themselves. Over time, prioritizing your needs might start to feel selfish or even wrong.
2. Burnout Makes Everything Harder
If you’re overwhelmed, depleted, or running on autopilot, even simple acts of self-care can feel impossible. When your system is in survival mode, rest doesn’t always feel safe—or accessible.
3. You Think It Has to Look a Certain Way
We often assume self-care needs to be picture-perfect: morning yoga, organic smoothies, a glowing journal routine. But real self-care isn’t about performance—it’s about what helps you feel more grounded, rested, and whole.
4. Mental Health Struggles Get in the Way
Depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress can all make self-care feel like climbing a mountain. Even brushing your teeth or eating a meal can feel like a major task on difficult days.
Reframing Self-Care: It’s Not All or Nothing
Self-care isn’t something you need to master. It’s something you practice—imperfectly, inconsistently, and with compassion.
Here are a few simple ways to shift how you think about caring for yourself:
Make It Tiny
Self-care doesn’t have to be a big production. Drink a glass of water. Take one deep breath. Step outside for five minutes. The small things count—and they add up.
Start With What You Need, Not What You "Should" Do
Ask yourself: What would help me feel just a little more okay today? Then start there. Maybe it’s taking a nap, texting a friend, or turning off notifications.
Build Awareness Without Shame
Notice what gets in the way of your self-care, but try not to judge it. Are you avoiding rest because it feels unproductive? Are you struggling to eat regular meals because of stress? Awareness opens the door to change.
Honor Rest as a Need, Not a Reward
You don’t have to “earn” rest. You don’t need to hit a productivity quota before taking a break. Your needs are valid, even when nothing’s crossed off your to-do list.
Self-Care and Support Go Hand-in-Hand
Sometimes the most powerful act of self-care is asking for help. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. If you’re struggling with burnout, emotional overwhelm, or mental health challenges, therapy can provide a space to explore those struggles with compassion and support.
At Psychological Insights, we believe self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. And it looks different for everyone.
We’re here to help you discover what self-care means for you—in your life, at your pace, and in a way that feels realistic and meaningful.
You Deserve to Feel Cared For—By You
So if you’re struggling with self-care, start small. Start messy. Start now.
Because you deserve rest. You deserve nourishment. You deserve to show up for yourself the way you show up for others.
