Dr Jane Halsall brings a calm, thoughtful perspective to the subject of mental wellbeing.
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From a clinical perspective, anxiety is a normal reaction when the brain perceives a potential threat. The amygdala activates, and stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline increase, preparing the body for the ‘fight or flight’ response. While this response is designed to protect us, it can sometimes become overwhelming when uncertainty is prolonged. Feeling unsettled or hyper-alert doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It means your nervous system is doing exactly what it is designed to do.
The human brain prefers a defined threat over an ambiguous one. When we don’t know what might happen next, the mind often fills the gaps with worst-case scenarios. This pattern of “what if” thinking can fuel anxiety and create a spiral of catastrophic thoughts. Anchoring yourself to present facts rather than imagined scenarios can significantly reduce cognitive spiralling.
Sleep requires the nervous system to enter a parasympathetic state — what we call ‘rest and digest. When the brain perceives potential danger, even indirectly, it remains partially alert. “A ‘digital sunset’ — stopping news consumption at least an hour before bed — can help the body recognise that it is safe to rest.
For families, maintaining a sense of stability at home is particularly important. Maintaining regular mealtimes, predictable bedtimes, and shared family moments signals safety to the brain. Parents also play a key role in helping children regulate their emotions. Children regulate through adults. If parents can remain calm and provide clear, age-appropriate reassurance, children are far more likely to feel secure.
