Why You Might Feel Overwhelmed and Shaky All the Time — Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do

Have you ever felt like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders and find yourself trembling or shaky for no obvious reason? Feeling overwhelmed and shaky all the time can be confusing, distressing, and hard to understand — especially when it interferes with daily life. These sensations might feel physical, emotional, or both, and they can stem from a wide range of causes, from stress and nutritional imbalances to medical conditions that require attention.

This article will help you better understand why these symptoms may be happening, what to watch for, and what steps you can take to find relief and support.

Table of Contents

1. What It Means to Feel Overwhelmed and Shaky
2. Common Causes
3. Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
4. When Feeling Shaky Is a Medical Concern
5. How Stress and Anxiety Contribute
6. Lifestyle Factors That Can Make It Worse
7. Evaluation and Diagnostic Approaches
8. Evidence‑Based Treatment Options
9. Everyday Strategies for Relief
10. Final Thoughts

1. What It Means to Feel Overwhelmed and Shaky

Feeling overwhelmed generally refers to experiencing an intense mental, emotional, or sensory burden. This state can arise in response to a variety of situations, such as an excessive workload, sudden life changes, prolonged exposure to stress, or difficult emotions like worry and fear. Shakiness, on the other hand, usually describes physical trembling that may be noticeable in the hands, legs, or throughout the body. When these two experiences occur together, it can feel as though your mind is racing while your body is physically unsteady, creating a distressing combination that often prompts the search for answers. While occasional moments of overwhelm and temporary shakiness are common, persistent symptoms should not be ignored, as they may indicate an underlying issue that requires attention.

2. Common Causes

There are several reasons someone might feel overwhelmed and shaky. These generally fall into three broad categories: emotional triggers, physical conditions, and lifestyle or environmental factors.

Emotional and Psychological Causes

• Anxiety and panic disorders
• Stress overload
• Emotional exhaustion
• Depression

Physical and Medical Causes

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Hormonal imbalances
• Medication side effects
• Neurological conditions
• Cardiovascular issues

Lifestyle and Environmental Contributors

• Caffeine or stimulant overuse
• Sleep deprivation
• Poor nutrition
• Chronic pain
• Dehydration

Understanding the potential source is the first step toward effective management.

3. Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Shakiness paired with feelings of overwhelm can manifest in various ways, affecting both the mind and body. Many people notice trembling in the hands or limbs, a racing heart, or sudden palpitations. Sweating, feeling tense or wired, and difficulty concentrating are also common signs, along with irritability, mood swings, or fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, can further intensify these symptoms. Some individuals may additionally experience physical sensations like dizziness, stomach discomfort, or headaches. Paying close attention to these signs and tracking them over time can be very helpful in identifying patterns and potential triggers, allowing for more effective management and support.

4. When Feeling Shaky Is a Medical Concern

Not all shakiness is linked to stress or emotional factors. In some cases, persistent tremors may indicate an underlying medical condition that requires evaluation. Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, can be a factor, particularly for people with diabetes or irregular eating habits. Neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease or essential tremor, can also cause ongoing shakiness. Thyroid disorders, especially an overactive thyroid, may contribute to tremors, as can withdrawal from substances like alcohol or certain medications. Cardiovascular issues, including arrhythmias or changes in blood pressure, can further trigger shaking. If shakiness continues, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fainting, chest pain, or sudden weakness, it is important to consult a healthcare provider promptly to rule out serious conditions.

5. How Stress and Anxiety Contribute

One of the most common causes of feeling both overwhelmed and shaky is chronic stress. When the body perceives stress, it activates the sympathetic nervous system, releasing adrenaline and cortisol, the hormones responsible for the “fight or flight” response. These hormones prepare the body to respond to perceived threats, but repeated or prolonged activation can lead to tremors, persistent anxiety, and a constant state of tension. Some people may experience more pronounced shakiness than others due to factors such as genetic predisposition, a history of anxiety or panic attacks, poor stress‑management habits, or existing health conditions. Because individual responses vary, stress may cause only mild tremors in one person while producing more intense physical reactions in another.

6. Lifestyle Factors That Can Make It Worse

Daily habits and lifestyle choices play a significant role in how the body responds to stress and pressure. Excessive caffeine consumption, for instance, can trigger jitteriness and exacerbate shakiness. Poor sleep habits increase vulnerability to stress, while irregular meals may cause drops in blood sugar that leave the body feeling weak and shaky. A lack of regular physical activity can reduce stress resilience, and chronic dehydration can affect both muscle and nerve function, intensifying tremors. By making adjustments in these areas — such as moderating caffeine, establishing consistent sleep patterns, eating balanced meals, staying hydrated, and incorporating physical activity — many people notice a reduction in both emotional overwhelm and physical shakiness over time.

7. Evaluation and Diagnostic Approaches

When feelings of overwhelm and shakiness are frequent or severe, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider can help determine the cause. This often begins with a detailed medical history, including a review of lifestyle habits, symptom patterns, and any medications or supplements being taken. A physical exam may be conducted alongside diagnostic tests, such as blood glucose measurements, thyroid function tests, neurological assessments, and heart rhythm monitoring. Clinicians may also use screening tools, like anxiety or depression questionnaires and stress inventories, to assess emotional factors. By combining these approaches, healthcare professionals can distinguish between symptoms caused by medical conditions and those related to stress or emotional factors, ensuring a more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

8. Evidence‑Based Treatment Options

There is no one‑size‑fits‑all treatment, but many people benefit from a combination of approaches.

Medical Treatments

• Prescription medications (for anxiety, if needed)
• Medication adjustments (if current drugs contribute to symptoms)

Therapeutic Support

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps change unhelpful thought patterns
• Mindfulness practices: Reduces stress reactions
• Biofeedback and relaxation training

Lifestyle Interventions

• Regular physical activity
• Balanced meals and hydration
• Sleep hygiene routines
• Stress‑management exercises

Together, these strategies help regulate the nervous system and reduce symptoms over time.

9. Everyday Strategies for Relief

Even before professional help, there are things you can try to calm your body and mind:

Immediate Techniques

• Deep breathing: Slow inhalations and exhalations
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Mindful grounding: Focus on your senses (what you can see, hear, touch)

Daily Habits

• Consistent sleep schedule
• Regular meals and balanced nutrition
• Moderate caffeine intake
• Light exercise (like walking or yoga)
• Journaling thoughts and triggers

These small changes can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of overwhelm and shakiness.

10. Final Thoughts

Feeling overwhelmed and shaky all the time can be frustrating, exhausting, and at times frightening. These symptoms often reflect a mix of physical and emotional factors — and you don’t have to face them alone. Understanding the causes, recognizing your symptoms, and taking proactive steps can make a meaningful difference in how you feel. Remember that while stress and anxiety are common contributors, persistent or severe symptoms deserve professional evaluation to rule out underlying medical conditions.

If you are struggling with constant overwhelm and shakiness, it’s important to get proper support and guidance. Voss Family Clinic offers compassionate care, thorough evaluation, and personalized treatment plans to help you understand and manage your symptoms. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward feeling more grounded and in control.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions or mental health concerns. If you experience severe or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.