Finding Steadiness in a Chaotic World
Lately, many people have been feeling overwhelmed by everything happening in the world. It’s easy to get caught up in the news, feel distracted, and worry about how uncertainty affects your children and relationships. If you’ve noticed this in your own life, you’re not alone. Working with a therapist in Queens can help you stay grounded and find steadiness, even during unpredictable times.
Understanding Your Reactions
The world has been feeling very unpredictable and chaotic, and it’s natural to respond with strong reactions. These can range from overwhelm and anxiety to irritability and numbness. Whatever you’re experiencing is your body and mind trying to adapt to abnormal circumstances. If these reactions start interfering with your ability to function, make decisions, or show up in relationships the way you want, it may be a sign that additional support, such as relationship counseling in Queens, New York, could be helpful.
Caring for Yourself First
The first step is to begin with yourself. Give yourself permission to feel what you’re feeling, even when those emotions are uncomfortable. The more space you allow for your feelings, the more grounded you become. Being grounded helps you stay in clear contact with what you need in the moment.
Cultivating a sense of meaning can also provide steadiness. This isn’t about forcing a “silver lining” but rather trusting that there is direction and purpose, even if you can’t yet see the full picture. When we believe we are being guided, it helps us stay connected to hope.
And don’t underestimate the power of supporting others. Reaching out with a quick text to a friend or volunteering can give you purpose, remind you of shared humanity, and reduce your own spiral of worry.
Strengthening Relationships During Stress
Stressful times often place strain on couples, because stress activates different vulnerabilities. One partner might feel scared while the other feels angry. One may want to shut down, while the other can’t stop talking about it. This mismatch can feel disconnecting.
It can help to shift the dynamic from “you vs. your partner” to “both of us vs. the situation.” Express your feelings and ask about your partner’s. The goal is to stay emotionally connected and co-regulated. As a marriage therapist in New York, I often see how even small moments of connection create resilience for couples navigating challenges.
Supporting Your Children
For your kids, the most powerful gift you can offer is your own steadiness. They don’t need you to have all the answers — they need to see that big feelings are okay, and that emotions don’t mean everything is falling apart. The more secure you feel in yourself and your relationship, the more secure they will feel.
Validate their feelings with simple phrases like, “It makes sense that you’re feeling this way.” Be honest in an age-appropriate way, and try to be the source they hear news from, not their peers. You can also model coping strategies: saying, “I’m feeling nervous, so I’m going to take some deep breaths” teaches them that feelings are normal and manageable.
Building Resilience Together
Start with yourself. Then turn toward your partner. From there, you’ll be in the best position to offer support to your children. Times like these are unsettling, but by grounding and reaching for connection, you’re building resilience that lasts far beyond the present challenges.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and want support, I’m here to help. As a therapist in Queens, I offer individual and relationship counseling in Queens, NY, as well as services as a marriage therapist in New York. Together, we can help you find steadiness, connection, and hope. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.
