Why Everyone Feels Overwhelmed: The Shocking Truths From 'Notes on a Nervous Planet'

Unmasking the Hidden Stressors of Modern Life and How to Reclaim Your Peace

In an age where our phones buzz before we even open our eyes, it’s no wonder that anxiety has become a near-universal experience. Matt Haig’s 'Notes on a Nervous Planet' dives deep into the roots of this modern malaise, blending personal stories with scientific research and practical advice. The book opens with a simple question: Why are we so anxious? The answer, it turns out, is as complex as our digital lives.

Haig describes how the relentless pace of modern life—constant notifications, endless news cycles, and the pressure to always be ‘on’—creates a mental environment that is almost impossible to relax in. Our brains, wired for survival in a much slower world, are bombarded by information at a rate they can’t process. This leads to what he calls ‘digital overload’: a state where the mind is constantly scanning for threats, even when none exist. The result? Chronic anxiety, stress, and a sense of never being enough.

One of the book’s most powerful insights is the role of comparison culture. Social media, with its curated images and highlight reels, makes us feel inadequate even on our best days. Haig points out that we are comparing our messy behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s filtered front stage. The result is a perpetual feeling of falling short, no matter how much we achieve.

But Haig doesn’t just diagnose the problem—he offers hope. He shares practical strategies for reclaiming your peace, from setting boundaries with technology to practicing mindful self-care. He encourages readers to disconnect, even briefly, and to focus on the present moment. He reminds us that it’s okay to say no, to rest, and to be imperfect. These small acts of self-kindness are, in fact, revolutionary in a world that demands more and more.

Haig’s writing is deeply empathetic, filled with gentle humor and hard-earned wisdom. He draws on his own struggles with panic attacks and depression, making the book feel like a conversation with a wise friend. The message is clear: You are not alone, and there is a way through the noise.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the world, 'Notes on a Nervous Planet' is a must-read. It’s a guide to surviving—and even thriving—in the age of anxiety. By understanding the forces that shape our feelings, we can begin to take back control of our lives, one gentle step at a time.

Sources: personal reading, 1 , 3 , 4