Mind Over Matter in Trying Times

Periods of sustained turmoil—whether caused by economic instability, global crises, or personal challenges—can take a serious toll on our psychological well-being. People often find themselves struggling with anxiety, helplessness, or a decline in daily functioning. It becomes difficult to maintain routines, focus on priorities, and most importantly, sustain hope.
During such times, the concept of “mind over matter” holds great value. It does not mean ignoring the reality of external hardships but learning how to respond to them with resilience and clarity. By strengthening our mindset, practicing self-regulation, and making wise financial and lifestyle decisions, we can regain a sense of stability even in uncertain circumstances.

Understanding the Psychological Impact

Turmoil often creates feelings of unpredictability and loss of control. Stress hormones rise, leading to irritability, fatigue, and impaired decision-making. Over time, this can develop into chronic anxiety or depression if not addressed. Recognizing these emotional responses is the first step toward managing them effectively.

Strategies for Mental Strength

1. Emotional Regulation: Practice mindfulness, prayer, or deep-breathing exercises to calm the nervous system. These methods help reduce reactivity and improve problem-solving.

2. Routine & Discipline: Structure your day with regular sleep, exercise, and mealtimes. Small acts of discipline provide psychological stability.

3. Healthy Social Support: Share your concerns with trusted friends, family members, or professional counselors instead of isolating yourself.

4. Limit Negative Input: Reduce constant exposure to alarming news or social media, which often amplifies fear and helplessness.

Financial Awareness as Mental Relief

One of the most practical and empowering steps in difficult times is to be savvy about your finances. Financial strain is a key stressor, and gaining control over it can directly improve psychological resilience.

Revised Budgeting: Create a realistic monthly budget by listing essential needs first.
Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Pause luxury spending and focus on survival essentials.
Track Savings: Even small amounts saved can provide emotional security.
Seek Expert Guidance: Consulting a professional financial advisor can provide long-term strategies to manage debt, investments, or savings.

These steps may feel overwhelming initially, but once put into practice, they provide an essential sense of control and predictability—both of which are crucial for mental well-being.

Building Inner Strength for Outer Challenges

While external crises may not always be in our control, our internal responses certainly are. Strengthening one’s mindset, being financially prudent, and practicing daily resilience techniques are effective ways to sustain balance. Ultimately, mind over matter means reclaiming your agency in the face of adversity.

Dr. Fareeha Kanwal
Clinical Psychologist & Freelance Contributor

Key Points:

Turmoil impacts daily functioning, emotions, and decision-making.
Building resilience requires mindfulness, discipline, and social support.
Limiting negative media consumption helps protect mental peace.
Financial management (budgeting, cutting expenses, saving, and seeking advice) provides both economic and psychological relief.
True resilience is about balancing practical steps with emotional well-being.