It’s no secret that the world can be a stressful place. From the ongoing war in Ukraine to the threat of nuclear war, there are plenty of things to worry about. And while it’s important to stay informed about current events, it’s also important to find ways to cope with the stress that they can cause.
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference, living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; taking this world as it is and not as I would have it; trusting that You will make all things right if I surrender to Your will; so that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with You forever in the next. Amen.
Reinhold Niebuhr
- Acceptance: Recognizing the Limits of Our Control
The first step in managing stress and anxiety is to accept that there are things beyond our control. We cannot single-handedly resolve global conflicts or stop natural disasters. By acknowledging our limitations, we can redirect our energy towards areas of our lives where we can make a difference.
- Courage: Taking Action Where We Can
While we may not have the power to change the world on a grand scale, we can still contribute positively within our spheres of influence. Whether it’s through volunteering, supporting causes we believe in, or engaging in local community initiatives, having the courage to take action can help counter feelings of helplessness and despair.
- Wisdom: Discerning What We Can and Cannot Change
The wisdom to know the difference between what we can and cannot change is crucial for maintaining our mental health. It’s essential to stay informed about world events, but also to recognize when we need to step back and focus on our own well-being. Striking a balance between global awareness and self-care can help us navigate these challenging times with greater clarity and resilience.
IV. Living One Day at a Time
The Serenity Prayer also emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment: “Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time.” By focusing on the here and now, we can avoid becoming overwhelmed by the uncertainties of the future. Practicing mindfulness and gratitude can help us stay grounded and appreciate the joys and beauty in our daily lives.
Here are a few tips for coping with stress from world events:
- Stay informed, but don’t dwell on the news. It’s important to stay informed about current events, but it’s also important to limit your exposure to the news. Watching or reading the news all day long can make you feel anxious and stressed. Instead, try to limit your news intake to a few times a day.
- Focus on the things you can control. It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about things that are out of your control, but it’s important to focus on the things that you can control. This could include things like your health, your relationships, and your work. When you focus on the things that you can control, it can help to reduce your stress levels.
- Take care of yourself. When you’re stressed, it’s important to take care of yourself. This means eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. Taking care of your physical and mental health can help you to cope with stress more effectively.
- Connect with others. Spending time with friends and family can help to reduce stress levels. When you’re around people who care about you, it can help you to feel supported and loved.
- Find a hobby or activity that you enjoy. Having something to focus on outside of work or school can help to reduce stress levels. This could be anything from reading to playing a sport to volunteering for a cause that you care about.
- Seek professional help if needed. If you’re struggling to cope with stress, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. A therapist can teach you coping mechanisms and help you to develop a stress management plan.
It’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Everyone experiences stress from time to time. But by following these tips, you can learn to cope with stress more effectively and live a happier, healthier life.