How to Cope When the World Feels Out of Control
Politics is scary. The climate is warming. New diseases are brewing. Our rights are being limited. Maybe everything will be okay, but maybe it won't. For many of us, the uncertainty feels overwhelming, and it’s easy to fall into despair or try to mask our fears with numbing behaviors and fake positivity. But how do we move forward in a world that feels increasingly unpredictable? How do we combat fear and helplessness while staying grounded in reality?
The answer lies in taking intentional steps to cultivate resilience, connect with community, and focus on what we can control—our actions, our choices, and our mindset.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
First, let’s acknowledge how unsettling it is to feel like the world is spinning out of control. Suppressing these feelings with false positivity (e.g., "everything happens for a reason") might seem comforting in the short term but can prevent us from processing what we’re really going through. Instead, honor your emotions. Talk to someone you trust, journal your thoughts, or seek professional support if you need to.
By naming your fears and worries, you give yourself the opportunity to work through them, instead of letting them fester beneath the surface.
Focus on What You Can Control
When faced with global issues, it’s easy to feel powerless. However, even small actions can create meaningful change. Here are a few ways to focus on what’s within your sphere of influence:
Limit Your News Consumption: Stay informed, but don’t overwhelm yourself with a 24/7 news cycle. Consider focusing on local news, where you’re more likely to find actionable opportunities to get involved.
Get Involved Locally: Join a community garden, attend a city council meeting, or participate in a neighborhood clean-up. These small acts can help foster a sense of agency and connection.
Give Back: Volunteering is one of the most effective ways to counter feelings of helplessness. When you help others, you not only make a positive impact but also boost your own well-being. When you feel helpless, get helpful!
Volunteer Opportunity Databases:
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Find or Build Your Community
Connection is a powerful antidote to fear and isolation. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your values and concerns. Whether it’s a book club, a support group, or a volunteer organization, finding your people can help you feel less alone.
If you’re in San Diego, consider meeting with holistic practitioners who offer a variety of therapeutic modalities. Building a support system that nurtures your emotional and physical health is a crucial part of navigating these uncertain times.
Embrace Holistic Practices
Holistic practices like breathwork, Reiki, hypnotherapy, and sound healing can help you manage stress and reconnect with your inner self. These modalities encourage mindfulness, resilience, and a deeper understanding of your own needs and emotions. When the external world feels chaotic, cultivating inner peace can make all the difference.
Take Action: Your Next Steps
Feeling helpless doesn’t have to be the end of the story. If you’re ready to take control of your well-being and meet others on a similar journey, consider booking a wellness consultation at The Guides Holistic Therapies in San Diego. Together, we can explore personalized approaches to help you feel grounded, empowered, and resilient.
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Final Thoughts
We may not be able to solve every global crisis overnight, but by focusing on what’s real, taking small actions, and building meaningful connections, we can find peace and purpose amid the uncertainty. Remember, you’re not alone in this. Let’s face these challenges together—one step, one breath, one act of kindness at a time.
