Tarot for Mental Health, When Life Feels Overwhelming

When life feels overwhelming, tarot can be a gentle support — but there’s one rule I always follow: don’t do predictive spreads.

No matter how good the cards look, when you’re overwhelmed you won’t believe them. You’ll project your fears onto the reading, or the spread will spark hope that doesn’t feel lasting. Because when your emotions are heavy, a hopeful message can feel too far away, too discordant.

So my first piece of advice is simple: avoid predictive spreads.

Create a Calming Ritual

Make yourself a cup of tea, or a cold drink — whatever you really like. Maybe light a candle or place a favourite crystal nearby. Create a small calming ritual.

Pick up your cards and shuffle, letting your focus rest on your breath. Use the movement of the cards as a way to invite calm and peace, even if only for a moment. The simple act of shuffling can become a ritual in itself — a moment of stillness.

A Three-Card Reading

When you feel ready, pull three cards and read them as practical advice you need right now. Whatever comes up, look for the positive meaning in each card.

I truly believe every single card in the tarot has a gift to offer. Even the so-called difficult ones. The Nine of Swordsmight be there to validate how you’re feeling, to name your emotions, and remind you it’s okay to be present with them. The Devil might be showing you where your inner critic is holding you back, inviting you to loosen its grip.

Whatever the cards are, find the blessing within them — the guidance meant for you in this moment.

The Fourth Card — Advice

Then, turn the pack over and look at the card on the bottom — the fourth card in this three-card reading. This is your advice.

It might be something you can act on today, or something to add to your to-do list. Either way, treat it as the practical guidance the cards are offering you right now.

And if you ever struggle to find the positive meaning in every card, I’ve created a free crib sheet to help. You can download it from my website — the link is right here.