Coping with uncertainty

How do we cope when living in uncertain times? It’s a question I find myself asking more often than ever. And honestly, it feels justified. We live in a world where so many things can trigger concern: global conflict, economic change, natural disasters — and that’s before we even touch any other thoughts like “Why am I here?” or “What do I want for my life?” 

Recently, I’ve become more aware of how uncertainty shows up in my children’s lives too. It began with a conversation with my youngest son, who asked “What does an atomic bomb do?” My mind started racing — How do I answer this question without causing anxiety? My first instinct was wanting to understand what had prompted the question. He explained that he had heard someone mention it on YouTube, a random creator he follows (which, I feel, seems like it’s becoming the norm now). As he spoke, I realised that his question revealed we were both asking questions about the world.

With the increased ease of access to information through technology, children are now exposed to global issues in a way previous generations like my own simply were not. Information — and misinformation — is everywhere. Even when they are not looking for it, young people absorb overheard conversations, news headlines, and endless online chatter that can leave them with big questions and even bigger feelings. 

In that moment, something became very clear: I couldn’t take away the feeling of uncertainty for my son. I couldn’t promise that the world will always feel predictable or safe. And no matter how much I might want to, I can’t control everything he hears, sees, or wonders about as he gets older. 

But what I can do is be present with him, even during the uncertainty. 

I can listen to the questions that come ‘out of the blue’. I can ask what he’s heard, what he thinks, and how he feels. I can offer age‑appropriate information without overwhelming him. I also, hopefully, can help him understand that feeling uncertain about some things in life is completely normal and I have similar feelings at times too. 

Children don’t need us to have all the answers. They need to know that their feelings are valid and that they don’t have to face those feelings alone. The idea of uncertainty is something everyone experiences, that includes the adults like me who are expected to have answers about the world.  

So, while I can’t remove the unknowns from my children’s lives, I can offer something just as valuable: a steady presence, a listening ear, and the reassurance that it’s okay to feel uncertain. In a world that often feels unpredictable, my offering of connection and understanding might be the best thing I can give them.