Anxiety and Global Events: Navigating Uncertainty in a Tense World

In an increasingly interconnected world, global events such as Donald Trump’s tariff policies and general economic uncertainty can have a far-reaching psychological impact, even on those who are not directly affected by these changes. The 24-hour news cycle, combined with the immediacy of social media, brings international tensions straight into our homes and minds. For people already living with anxiety disorders such as Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), the effects of such news can be particularly distressing.

GAD is characterised by persistent and excessive worry about a number of different things, often including matters that are outside of the individual's control. While it’s natural to feel concerned about economic shifts or political tensions, people with GAD may find their worries escalating to unmanageable levels. News of tariffs, market volatility, or geopolitical conflict can be internalised as personal threats, triggering symptoms such as restlessness, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and insomnia. Crucially, this occurs even when there is no immediate personal impact, as the disorder tends to amplify perceived danger and uncertainty.

The good news is that there are several effective ways to help manage and relieve anxiety, even when the outside world feels unpredictable. Practices such as yoga and meditation are widely recognised for their calming effects on the nervous system. Yoga, by combining physical movement with breath control and mindfulness, can reduce stress hormones and increase feelings of wellbeing. Meditation, particularly mindfulness-based approaches, helps individuals ground themselves in the present moment, reducing the tendency to catastrophise about the future.

Adopting healthy behaviours more broadly can also make a significant difference. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep all contribute to emotional resilience. These habits help regulate mood, support brain health, and improve the body's ability to manage stress. Conversely, it's important to avoid behaviours that may exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Relying on alcohol, recreational drugs, or excessive caffeine may seem like a quick fix, but they often lead to worsened anxiety in the long term, increasing both physiological and psychological stress responses.

It’s also essential to recognise the importance of limiting exposure to anxiety-inducing media. While staying informed is valuable, constantly refreshing news feeds or engaging with alarmist headlines can trigger a sense of helplessness. Setting boundaries—such as only checking the news once or twice a day, or avoiding it before bedtime—can protect mental wellbeing.

In times of global uncertainty, anxiety is a natural response. But for those with anxiety disorders, the impact can be profound and debilitating. Through self-care, mindfulness practices, and healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can build resilience against the mental toll of a turbulent world. Seeking professional support, whether through therapy or support groups, can also provide tools and understanding to navigate these challenges more effectively.