Personal Growth

Founder and Psychologist

dr-elisha

Finding Calm in Uncertain Times

Right now, it feels like we’re facing an overwhelming amount of conflict and uncertainty. There’s so much happening in the world—the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, so many people dealing with deep loss, and the devastation from natural disasters like Hurricane Helene and Milton. On top of that, the rapid changes in AI and technology are adding another layer of unpredictability to our lives. It’s a lot for anyone to process, and it can leave you feeling anxious, hopeless, or just plain overwhelmed.

Do you find yourself stuck in this cycle of worry, scrolling through endless headlines or talking with people who are also feeling the weight of it all? If so, you’re not alone.

Let me explain.

Our brains are wired to focus on threats—it’s part of how we’ve survived for thousands of years. But now, instead of keeping us safe from wild animals, this survival mechanism is on overdrive because of constant negative news. A part of your brain called the amygdala—think of it as your alarm system—is constantly scanning for danger. And when it’s stuck in this mode, it’s hard to calm down and find peace.

The truth is, while the challenges are very real, there are also ways we can navigate these tough times without feeling consumed by them.

In fact, I’d love to share a few simple strategies that I use with the people I work with and in my own life. These tools can help you calm your mind, stay grounded, and begin to see more possibilities, even in the middle of chaos:

Strategies to Stay Grounded

1. Pause and Breathe: When you’re overwhelmed, just take a moment to pause. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and feel your feet on the ground. This helps settle your nervous system.

2. Limit Your Media Exposure: Be intentional about what you’re taking in. It’s important to stay informed, but try setting boundaries on how much time you spend consuming news, especially before bed.

3. Focus on Small Wins: In times of crisis, it’s easy to feel like everything is out of control. Focus on what’s going well, no matter how small it may seem. Small moments of gratitude or success can make a huge difference.

START PROCESSING YOUR EMOTIONS

4 Steps to Process Painful Emotions

The FREE ultra-simple guide to help you manage anxiety, anger, and grief in a healthy way. (Even if you’re stuck in overthinking!)