Rising Uncertainty, Rising Stress

The U.S. workforce is facing another wave of anxiety as corporate layoffs and political gridlock test the nation’s resilience. In recent weeks, Nestlé announced 16,000 job cuts, followed by Target’s first round of layoffs in a decade and Amazon’s plans to trim up to 30,000 roles. At the same time, the federal government shutdown has entered its second month, intensifying fears about the broader economy and household stability.

It’s no surprise that stress levels are spiking. Financial insecurity and career uncertainty often trigger psychological strain that seeps into every aspect of daily life—from sleep and diet to relationships and productivity. According to behavioral wealth specialist Wendell Clarke, now is precisely the time when Americans must make deliberate efforts to manage their emotional, physical, and financial well-being.

“Stress is inevitable during turbulent periods,” Clarke said. “But if we neglect ourselves, we’re doing ourselves no favors.”

1. Acknowledge and Understand Your Emotions

Clarke emphasizes that the first step to regaining control is self-awareness—identifying the root causes of fear and anxiety before reacting impulsively. “Ask yourself, what is the source of this stress?” he says. “Is it fear of not having enough? Is it anxiety about how things will unfold with the government or the economy?”

Unexamined emotions can lead to unproductive coping mechanisms—like impulsive spending, overworking, or substance use—that worsen long-term stress. Instead, Clarke advises taking a rational approach: pause, reflect, and respond thoughtfully.

“Understanding what’s driving your emotions ensures that your decisions remain grounded in reality rather than fear,” he notes. This kind of emotional clarity can also support better financial judgment during volatile times.

2. Lean on Your Support Network

Isolation magnifies anxiety, while community connection can buffer against it. Clarke urges individuals not to face uncertainty alone. “That could mean talking to a therapist, reaching out to a friend, or meeting with a faith leader,” he said. “If a person finds themselves overwhelmed, they should not suffer in silence.”

Research supports this: social interaction releases oxytocin, a hormone that counteracts the body’s stress response. Even **small acts of connection—sharing a meal, attending a support group, or spending time outdoors with friends—**can have measurable mental health benefits.

“Spending time with others when we’re going through hardships helps us cope,” Clarke says. “Even if you’re not ready to share everything, being around others matters.”

3. Prioritize Physical and Emotional Self-Care

Chronic stress can derail the body’s natural balance, leading to fatigue, poor nutrition, and disrupted sleep. Clarke warns that adrenaline spikes from prolonged anxiety can make it difficult to rest or maintain healthy habits.

To counter this, he recommends a daily focus on the fundamentals: adequate sleep, hydration, exercise, and exposure to sunlight. These small but powerful routines help regulate hormones, stabilize mood, and improve cognitive function—vital defenses against burnout.

“When the world feels uncertain, the body becomes the anchor,” Clarke explains. “If we neglect ourselves, we’re doing ourselves no favors. Taking care of your body is the most direct way to protect your mind.”

Building Resilience in an Age of Uncertainty

The intersection of job insecurity, economic volatility, and political instability has created what many psychologists describe as a “sustained stress environment.” Yet, experts say individuals can build resilience through consistency and self-compassion—two qualities that anchor well-being when external events remain unpredictable.

For Clarke, the key is balance. “We can’t control what happens in the markets or in Washington, but we can control how we respond,” he said. “If we prioritize awareness, connection, and self-care, we give ourselves the best chance not just to survive uncertainty—but to grow through it.”