Weighing down is the feeling of being burdened or stressed by something. There are several synonyms that can be used in place of this phrase, depending on the context. One common alternative is "pressing on," which suggests that the weight is bearing down heavily and creating pressure. "Bogging down" is a related phrase that indicates something is slowing down progress or preventing forward movement. "Encumbering" is a more formal term that implies something is hindering or impeding. Another option is "dragging on," which indicates a slow or difficult process that is causing frustration or fatigue. Whatever synonym is used, the meaning is essentially the same - a sense of being overwhelmed by a weighty burden.