When the world feels like it’s unraveling—with headlines about war, political chaos, climate disasters and more—it’s easy to feel powerless.
But while you may not be able to stop global events, you can take back control of your own peace of mind.
A new guide, based on advice from Iform, offers 10 simple but effective techniques to help you stay informed without losing yourself in the noise.
1. Let the Worries Exist—Without Following Them
Trying not to worry usually backfires. Like the old “Don’t think about a blue elephant” trick—your brain immediately conjures the very image you're trying to avoid.
Instead of fighting your thoughts, acknowledge them without acting on them. Let them drift by like clouds—there, but not in control.
2. Create a Worry Window
If anxiety is constantly buzzing in your head, try this: set aside 15 minutes a day just for worrying. When anxious thoughts pop up at other times, gently remind yourself, “I’ll deal with this during my worry time.”
This simple habit helps contain the spiral.
3. Turn Down the News
No one needs a constant news feed to stay informed.
Checking the news once or twice a day is enough. Stick to trustworthy, balanced sources—those that inform without inflaming. More news doesn’t mean better understanding—it often just means more stress.
4. Drop the Doomscroll
The more dramatic posts you engage with, the more the algorithm feeds you. This creates a distorted, fear-driven worldview. Limit your time on social media, turn off push notifications, and use app blockers if needed.
A calmer mind starts with a cleaner feed.
5. Be Skeptical of Headlines
Clickbait headlines are designed to spark emotion—especially fear and outrage. Not everything is as urgent or disastrous as it sounds.
Choose media outlets that prioritize accuracy over panic.
6. Reclaim Joy with Small Rituals
A walk in nature, painting, baking, playing music—whatever helps you feel grounded, do more of that. Especially when the world feels out of control, it’s vital to focus on what nourishes your own sense of calm.
7. Limit Crisis Talk
It might feel helpful to vent about the state of the world, but constant conversation about global catastrophes can leave you feeling worse. It’s okay to tell friends, “Can we talk about something else today?”
8. Practice Living with Uncertainty
The truth is, no one knows what tomorrow holds. And the more you try to mentally solve the unsolvable, the more anxious you become. Accept that some uncertainty is part of life—and that it’s okay not to have all the answers.
9. Thoughts Aren’t Always Truths
Just because a thought feels real doesn’t mean it is real. Learning to separate your thoughts from objective reality is one of the most powerful mental habits you can build.
10. Stop Feeding the Worry Birds
Picture your worries as a flock of birds. The more attention (or “seeds”) you give them, the more they stay—and invite friends.
Notice them, but stop feeding them. Let them come and go without engaging.
Staying informed doesn’t mean staying overwhelmed. With the right mindset and daily habits, it’s possible to remain aware of what’s happening in the world while protecting your peace and mental well-being.
