28/10/2026
💭 When being prepared starts to feel overwhelming…
You might have noticed more conversations in the news recently about preparing for emergencies, stocking up on essentials and thinking about what we would do if something unexpected happened.
While being prepared can be a sensible thing, these messages can also leave us feeling a little unsettled, particularly if we're someone who already struggles with anxiety or worry. I know I have.
It's natural for our minds to want to protect us and the people we love. But sometimes, when we're faced with uncertainty, our thoughts can quickly turn into lots of "what ifs".
What if something bad happens?
What if we're not prepared enough?
What if I can't keep my family safe?
And before we know it, we're caught up worrying about things that haven't happened and may never happen.
So, what can we do when worry starts to take over? 🤔
Something that can help is gently asking ourselves:
"Is there something I can actually do about this right now, or am I worrying about what might happen?"
If there's something practical you can do, that's okay. Make a small plan, take the steps you need to, and then allow yourself to leave it there.
If it's something you can't control or don't have the answers to, try bringing yourself back to what's happening here and now.
Perhaps that's enjoying a cup of tea, spending time with someone you love, going for a walk or simply taking a moment away from the news.
🌿 We don't need to have an answer for every uncertainty life brings.
It's okay to want to feel prepared. It's okay to feel worried sometimes, too.
But we also deserve to enjoy the moments in front of us, rather than spending all our time worrying about what might be around the corner.
💚 We can be prepared without letting worry take over our lives.
Sara Rae | Psychological Therapy Fife in partnership with Rae's Anatomy Mind and Movement - Burntisland