How to deal with uncertainty and how does it affect our brain?

Currently we are going through times of uncertainty: what can well be translated as a lack of certainty about the future is a perception that can be attributed to a series of factors. Technological changes, the COVID-19 pandemic that we are going through, climate change or the various geopolitical conflicts that occur, are some examples.

These circumstances have resulted in a present that is increasingly complex, and seem to promise a future full of changes. It is difficult to predict what will happen, and this uncertainty can represent a source of great stress, anxiety and anguish for many people.

The lack of certainty about what the future holds can have a significant impact on our lives. It can be a real obstacle when it comes to making decisions, planning our future and that of our family, while at the same time it produces feelings of insecurity and fear.

The impact on our brain

When we experience uncertainty, our brain is subjected to a series of physiological and emotional changes. These changes are part of our coping and decision-making strategies.

• Physiological changes. In response to uncertainty, our brain releases a series of hormones and neurotransmitters that cause different organic changes (such as increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, accelerated breathing, sweating, tingling sensation on the skin , muscle tension, among others). These physical effects help us be more alert and react faster to potential dangers.

• Emotional changes. Uncertainty also causes feelings, such as insecurity, anguish, fear, worry and difficulty making decisions. All of these emotions can hinder concentration, attention and mental agility.

How to deal with uncertainty?

Among the different coping strategies that professionals advise in these cases, we can mention:

• It is good to accept uncertainty as an inevitable part of life, being realistic and recognizing that there are aspects of our lives that are beyond what we have under control.

• You have to try focus on those things we can controlin everything that can improve our state of mind and our quality of life, even knowing that the future is uncertain.

• It is also recommended to create a support netsurrounding ourselves with people who contain us and help us feel safer and accompanied.

• It is necessary that we learn to manage stress better, since it can exacerbate the apprehension and tension we feel and is something that usually worsens uncertainty. We can resort to a series of useful tools, such as physical exercise, meditation and therapy.

There is various scientific research that has shown that when facing uncertainty, some brain regions are activated:

• This is the case of the amygdalainvolved in the processing of emotions, including fear and anxiety.

• The prefrontal cortexwhich intervenes in our decision making, planning and control of the impulses we have.

• He hippocampuswhich is involved in learning and memory.

This description establishes that uncertainty forces us to recognize our cognitive and emotional resources, as well as the tools at our disposal, to confront a situation.

Taking care of our health, both physical and mental, is essential. That is why we must make sure rest enoughCarry one healthy nutrition and do physical activities regularly.

An important factor that we must take into account is that an uncertain outlook includes the impossibility of predicting the duration of the event.

Learning to manage uncertainty is an important skill for the complex and changing world in which we live. By exercising our cognitive and emotional skills we can prepare ourselves to live a full and satisfying life.

Challenges

1. Find the names of two reptiles by ordering the following letters:

A – A – A – G – G – L – O – O – R – R – T – T – T – U

2. What is the meaning of the word villorin?

a) Tree. Laurel species.

b) Undyed wool cloth.

c) Small population.

3. E – N – O – R – T – U

Use these letters to find two words that meet these definitions:

· Rumbling.

· Impartial.

Answers

1. Lizard. Tortoise.

2. a. Undyed wool cloth.

3. Thunder. Neutral.