An Unsettled World: Finding Balance in Times of Change

I’ve touched on aspects of this topic in previous blogs, but my sense is that it might need some more room to breathe. For many people there is a growing sense of unease in our world right now. Homelessness, cost of living, rising extremism, uncertainty about the future, and the perception of government inaction is resulting in many of us feeling frustrated, unheard, and powerless. Some feel anger, others experience sadness or fear.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and everyone has an opinion or a solution that may not necessarily align with our own values. It becomes even more challenging when we realise that we all want the same thing; a resolution to economic or social pressures and improved well-being for all. But ensuring communities remain liveable and sustainable has become entangled in cultural and political ideologies, exacerbating fears of losing our identity and sense of belonging. We cannot condone prejudice, however, listening respectfully without judgment, can help us understand our common concerns in a way that prevents harmful division.

Obvious as it may be, living under constant stress, worrying about the rising price of groceries, struggling to secure stable housing, or simply feeling uncertain about the future and what is happening to our world, can have a damaging impact on our mental health. It can manifest as anxiety, difficulty sleeping, a sense of hopelessness, or irritability. Even folks who are usually resilient may find themselves struggling and the longer these stresses persist, the more important it becomes to address them directly. 

We can’t solve the social and political challenges of our world alone, but there are ways that we can restore a sense of agency and calm within. I read an article this week about the actor Tom Selleck and how he aligns politically. To have an informed opinion on a matter, Tom will read material from the most extreme ends of the spectrum so that he can decide for himself. Giving equal weight to alternative views as well as staying informed through balanced sources, rather than relying only on headlines or social media, can help provide clarity. Talking with trusted friends, family, or community groups allows concerns to be shared and lessens feelings of isolation. Setting healthy boundaries with news consumption is helpful too, helping to prevent overwhelm and protect mental well-being. And when the weight of worry feels too heavy, seeking professional support through psychotherapy can offer a safe, non-judgmental space to process fears, strengthen coping strategies, and regain perspective.

Although today’s challenges can feel unnerving, history teaches us that communities adapt, grow, and renew themselves. By holding space for each other’s concerns, without fuelling prejudice, bigotry or hatred, and by caring for our mental health, we can find a renewed sense of self, a new way of being.

Mind yourself.

Alan.