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Managing Existential Anxiety: 5 Therapist-Recommended Ways to Find Calm in a Stressful World

  • Writer: Corinne Davis
    Corinne Davis
  • Oct 20
  • 2 min read

Group of people participating in a peaceful protest, symbolizing global concerns and social causes that can contribute to existential anxiety.
A peaceful demonstration reminds us that caring deeply about the world can inspire action—but it’s also important to set healthy limits to protect our mental wellbeing.

Understanding Existential Anxiety

In recent years, many people have reported rising anxiety over national, environmental, and global concerns. When the state of the world feels unstable, it’s common to question meaning, purpose, and what truly matters — a state often referred to as existential anxiety.

Existential anxiety can leave us feeling helpless, restless, or even guilty for enjoying life when so much feels uncertain. The good news: you can manage this anxiety and find balance again.



Here are five therapist-recommended ways to stay grounded in today’s stressful world.


1. Set Boundaries with News and Social Media

It’s healthy to stay informed — but constant exposure to breaking news can fuel anxiety. Try turning off news alerts and choosing a single time each day to check updates, ideally not first thing in the morning. Reducing doom-scrolling and unfollowing accounts that trigger distress helps you focus your energy on what you can control.


2. Focus on One Cause at a Time

Many clients share feeling overwhelmed by how many issues demand attention. You can’t fix everything — and that’s okay. Choose one cause that truly aligns with your values and focus your energy there. Real change comes from consistent action, not constant worry. Giving yourself permission to narrow your focus also prevents burnout and deepens your sense of purpose.


3. Increase Self-Care During Stressful Seasons

When the world feels heavy, you need more care, not less. Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate — it’s about mindful restoration. Listen to uplifting music on your commute, take mindful breaths before bed, or spend five minutes outside between meetings. These small choices compound into resilience.

4. Make Space for Joy and Connection

Joy is not denial — it’s balance. Engage in activities that make you feel alive: spend time with loved ones, pursue a hobby, or plan something small to look forward to. Joyful experiences recharge your emotional capacity to cope with stress and restore perspective.

5. Remember What You Can Control

Anxiety often convinces us that worry equals action — but it doesn’t. When faced with existential concerns, refocus on what you can influence: how you show up, the choices you make, and the kindness you extend to yourself and others. Living your values in daily life is a powerful antidote to helplessness.



Healing from Existential Anxiety

Feeling anxious about the state of the world doesn’t mean something is wrong with you — it means you care deeply.

If that care becomes overwhelming, therapy for anxiety can help you regain clarity, reduce worry, and restore peace of mind.


At Better Being Group, our licensed therapists specialize in anxiety treatment, trauma therapy, and EMDR for emotional regulation. We provide in-person sessions in Pennsylvania and online therapy across multiple states, including Connecticut, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Colorado, Ohio, Texas, Florida and beyond. Support is available wherever you are. Reach out today.

 
 
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