Elizabeth Jane: How to stay mentally strong when the world feels like it’s falling apart

When everything feels chaotic, from global events and personal challenges to emotional overwhelm, it is easy to feel helpless, anxious and flat. But according to Elizabeth Jane, wellbeing and mindfulness keynote speaker, relationships coach and author of the Amazon best seller Free and First - Unlocking Your Ultimate Life, it is possible to stay emotionally strong and mentally uplifted even when the world around you feels unstable.

Elizabeth speaks from deep personal experience. After the sudden and traumatic breakdown of her 25-year marriage, she was left shattered, unsure of her identity and uncertain about her future. Yet it was in this chapter of deep pain that she found the tools to not only survive but to truly thrive and now she helps others do the same.

"Life has a way of testing us. But it is how we respond to those tests that defines our growth, our peace and our power," Jane said.

"World events are creating a lot of chaos at the moment and many people are feeling unsafe, anxious and scared.  This is normal however it is important to find a way to manage yourself through this time otherwise anxiety can take over and impact our quality of life."

Jane outlines some key things people can do to lift themselves up and maintain calm during the chaos. 

Turn inwards to find your inner peace

When the whole world pulls you in every direction you always have the power to turn inwards and reset to find inner peace. 

"Take regular mindful moments throughout the day, closing your eyes and calming your nervous system and centring yourself with a few minutes of deep belly breathing," Jane said. 

Stay grounded through small rituals

"Do something every day that brings you into the present moment and back to yourself. It could be a short meditation, a morning walk, five minutes of stillness, writing in a journal or lighting a candle at night.  The trick is to stay present, not lost in draining negative thoughts," Jane said. 

"When everything outside you feels uncertain, daily rituals can enable us to connect to the peace within."

These small acts create a sense of rhythm, control and self-connection, which is crucial when anxiety and overwhelm try to take hold.

Limit emotional exposure to chaos

Elizabeth encourages people to be mindful of what they consume, especially during times of global or social unrest.

"You do not need to absorb every headline, every crisis or every opinion. Set boundaries with your media intake. Give yourself permission to step back and protect your peace," she said.

She also suggests unfollowing or muting online accounts that drain your energy and setting tech free windows each day to reduce mental clutter.

Identify energy vampires in your life

Examine your relationships with loved ones and work colleagues. 

"Who is draining me right now? If you are always showing up for someone but they are not showing up for you that leaks your energy and you will feel drained," Jane said. 

"Honour your self-worth and have that empowered conversation establishing healthy boundaries.  Call your power back.  Your love, your friendship and your support are a privilege not an entitlement," Elizabeth explained. 

Focus on what you can control

"When we feel out of control, we start to panic. The antidote is to take small, empowered actions," Jane said.

This might include organising your space, sticking to a daily exercise routine, drinking more water or having an open conversation with someone where your boundaries have been overstepped.

"These small wins help rewire your nervous system to feel safe and steady again," Jane added. 

Choose to respond rather than react

When disagreements or conflict unfold in the workplace or with family, remember we have a choice.  

"A big negative reaction most likely fuels the argument and deenergises everyone involved as we give our power away. However, responding in a calm but authoritative manner as to how you feel and that the behaviour won't be tolerated, can be empowering for all involved," Jane said. 

Surround yourself with uplifting, supportive friends and family

"Choose to spend time with people who support and celebrate you for being you and who enable you to be the best version of yourself and shine," Jane added.

Create moments of joy on purpose

Elizabeth believes joy is not a luxury, it is a lifeline.

"You have to actively create joy, especially when things feel heavy. Play music you love. Dance barefoot in the kitchen. Wear a colour that makes you feel alive. These are not silly things, they are soul medicine," she said.

Speak to yourself like someone you love

When life gets tough, Elizabeth urges people to become their own safe space.

"Self-talk can either spiral you down or lift you up. Choose to champion you. If you would not say it to someone you love, do not say it to yourself.  You can be honest about your feelings while also being kind," Jane said. 

Let yourself feel, but do not live there

"Pain, grief and sadness all need space to move through you, but do not unpack and live there," Elizabeth said. 

"Let the feelings come, name them and then gently lead yourself back to hope."

Make friend catch ups a negative free zone

Elizabeth said one of the most powerful things you can do for your mental health is to be intentional about your social time.

"If you are catching up with friends, ask them kindly to keep global issues, heavy news and drama off the table for that time. Set the tone. Say, 'let's make this a positive space, just for fun and light energy'. We all need room to vent, but that room doesn't have to be your one uplifting lunch or coffee date," Jane said. 

According to Elizabeth, social catch ups should leave you feeling energised, not emotionally drained. 

"Protect that time. Laugh, share good news, be silly. Let your nervous system relax and reenergise. You are allowed to say, 'let's keep this one joyful'," Jane said. 

About Elizabeth Jane

Elizabeth Jane is an Australian artist, author and public speaker. She uses a selection of painting media in her art, including acrylic oil and water colour. Digital and canvas versions of her art are available for purchase through her website. Jane's debut book, 'Free and First—Unlocking Your Ultimate Life', was written as part of her healing process following her divorce, which ended a 25-year marriage. Jane aims to develop wellness centres and healing sanctuaries focused on helping people to recover from relationship breakdowns and other life issues. 

https://elizabethjane.com.au/