get one's head above water and have one's head above water
1.Lit. to get one's head above the surface of the water while swimming. (See also keep one's head above water.) He finally got his head above water and was able to get a good breath.
2.Fig. to manage to get oneself caught up with one's work or responsibilities. I can't seem to get my head above water. Work just keeps piling up.I'll be glad when I have my head above water.