Niro Feliciano is a busy mom, author, and therapist with a master of science degree in social work. She is a TODAY show contributor and writes the TODAY.com column “Is This Normal?” Niro shares the struggles of the daily life of a mom, especially during busy times such as back-to-school season. Despite having a busy schedule, Niro was looking forward to having some uninterrupted time on the first day of school but found herself unable to accomplish anything due to what she describes as a “functional freeze.”
A functional freeze is a physical, emotional, and mental state where one lacks the motivation to complete tasks, even simple ones, due to burnout, stress, or a lack of purpose. It is characterized by feeling disconnected from your life and experiencing a low level of anxiety mixed with exhaustion. Signs of a functional freeze include having trouble finishing tasks, avoiding social interactions, and feeling frozen and lacking motivation in your personal life. While a functional freeze is not an official psychological diagnosis, it is a common experience for many individuals.
Functional freeze often occurs after periods of high stress or burnout at work or at home. Those who feel a lack of purpose in their lives may also be more susceptible to experiencing this phenomenon. In Niro’s case, the stress leading up to the start of the school year overwhelmed her brain and left her feeling unable to process anything further. Understanding the root causes of a functional freeze can help individuals address and overcome this state.
There are several strategies to help stop a functional freeze, including connecting with nature, exercising, laughing, working in short bursts using the Pomodoro technique, and practicing deep breathing exercises. Spending time in natural environments can decrease anxiety, improve concentration, and promote more expansive thinking. Exercise boosts mood and energy levels, while laughter releases endorphins and facilitates relaxation and stress relief. Utilizing techniques like the Pomodoro method and deep breathing can help retrain the brain to refocus and counteract the stress response.
If you find yourself struggling with a lack of motivation, difficulty completing tasks, and feeling disconnected from your life, it may be helpful to speak with a professional who can provide guidance and support. Seeking help from a therapist or mental health professional can assist you in working through more serious mental health issues and finding ways to regain joy and purpose in your daily life. Niro offers tips and insights in her columns to help individuals navigate common challenges such as mom guilt and people-pleasing tendencies.
