In times of uncertainty or conflict, it’s natural to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained. Continuous news updates, safety concerns, and disruptions to daily life can take a toll on your mental wellbeing. While we can’t always control external events, we can take meaningful steps to protect and strengthen our mental health. Seeking professional support or keeping yourself busy with routine tasks like house chores can give you stability when you need it most.
Here are 10 practical ways to support yourself during uncertain times or situations of war.
1. Stick to Your Routine House Chores
In uncertain times, routine creates stability. Waking up at the same time, having structured meal times, maintaining regular work or study hours, and keeping up with home cleaning and household chores can restore a sense of normalcy. Cleaning and organizing your living space not only keeps your environment clean but also gives a sense of accomplishment and control, which can reduce stress and anxiety. Even small tasks like tidying a room, doing laundry, or washing dishes can have a surprisingly positive effect on your mental wellbeing.
2. Practice Meditation and Mindfulness
Meditation helps calm the nervous system and reduce overthinking. Even 5–10 minutes of deep breathing or guided meditation daily can lower stress levels. Mindfulness techniques, such as focusing on your breath, anchor you in the present moment instead of worrying about unknown outcomes.
3. Consider Psychotherapy
Speaking to a licensed therapist can provide a safe, confidential space to process fear, stress, or uncertainty. Psychotherapy helps you understand your emotional responses and develop coping strategies tailored to your situation. Even a few sessions can make a significant difference in how you manage anxiety and regain a sense of control. In such times, having online therapy sessions is more helpful as you can get therapy anywhere, without having to visit the therapist’s office.
4. Limit News Consumption
Staying informed is important, but constant exposure to distressing news can increase fear and helplessness. Choose one or two reliable sources and set specific times to check updates. Avoid doom scrolling late at night, as it can disrupt sleep and heighten anxiety.
5. Keep Yourself Busy with Board Games and Hobbies
Engaging in board games, puzzles, reading, or creative hobbies keeps your mind active and distracted from negative thoughts. Activities that require concentration can act as a mental reset, giving your brain a break from worry. If you’re indoors with family, board games can also strengthen emotional bonds.
6. Stay Connected with Loved Ones
Isolation can intensify stress. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues, even if it’s just a short audio or video call. Sharing your concerns and hearing others’ experiences can help you feel less alone and more supported.
7. Prioritize Physical Health
Physical and mental health are closely linked. Try to maintain balanced meals, stay hydrated, and get adequate sleep. Gentle exercise at home, like stretching, yoga, or bodyweight workouts, releases endorphins, which naturally improve mood and reduce stress.
8. Focus on What You Can Control
Uncertainty often stems from feeling powerless. Instead of dwelling on uncontrollable events, shift your attention to practical actions: preparing emergency contacts, organizing important documents, or planning meals. Small, proactive steps can restore a sense of control.
9. Practice Grounding Techniques
When anxiety feels overwhelming, grounding exercises can help. Try the 5-4-3-2-1 method: name five things you see, four you can touch, three you hear, two you smell, and one you taste. This technique pulls your focus away from racing thoughts and into the present moment.
10. Be Kind to Yourself
It’s normal to feel scared, frustrated, or emotionally exhausted during uncertain times. Avoid judging yourself for these emotions. Allow yourself moments of rest and acknowledge that coping looks different for everyone. Self-compassion builds emotional resilience.
Uncertain times test our emotional strength, but they also highlight the importance of mental wellbeing. By incorporating small, consistent habits, such as keeping your home clean, maintaining routines, meditation, and engaging in meaningful activities, you can build resilience and navigate your day with greater clarity and calm. Even simple acts like tidying your space and organizing your surroundings can provide a sense of control and peace. And if you’re not feeling mentally up to it, consider booking a cleaner, having a clean and organized home can lift your mood and help you feel grounded during uncertain times.
