Brain Health and Managing Stress
Reflecting on the first half of 2025, you have likely felt – in one way or another – the stress of market ups and downs, new tariffs, ongoing trade talks, and changing economic signals like inflation and interest rates. These factors create waves of unpredictability that affect more than just the economy – they also add to stress that can take a toll on our mental health.
I recently attended a webinar hosted by Heidi Hanna, PhD, —also known as The Stress Detective—who shared some great tips on managing stress, especially during times of uncertainty. She focused on two main ideas:
“Everything in Life Oscillates” and “Be the Boss of Your Brain.”
The idea that everything oscillates suggests that life’s highs and lows are natural, and so is stress. Our brains want us to feel safe, but real growth happens when we face uncertainty with a positive, realistic mindset. Market swings and political changes can feel overwhelming, but they’re also chances to build mental strength.
Hanna emphasizes the importance of “being the boss of your brain” by learning to cope effectively with stress. Her “Brain Recharge Process” offers a simple, practical approach to regain control when stress hits.
1. Breathe – Take five slow breaths in and out to calm your nervous system.
2. Feel – Reflect on something you’re grateful for to shift your mindset.
3. Focus – Concentrate on completing a task and staying present.
An additional step to insert could also be prayer and meditation on things you know to be true, centering you on a solid foundation and not the ever-changing waves of news.
Having the awareness to take these steps in the moment can be hard, but awareness, like anything, can grow. We might find that as awareness grows, so does our ability to maintain a healthy brain and take the inevitable stress in stride.
Any opinions are those of Landon Vick and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete; it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and it does not constitute a recommendation. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. Be sure to contact a qualified professional regarding your particular situation before making any investment or withdrawal decisions.
