Worried About a Trade War?

How to Keep Your Balance in Uncertain Economic Times

It’s hard not to get swept up in the uncertainty of the moment when everything around us seems to be shifting. Right now, many of us are struggling to understand what a potential trade war between the U.S. and Canada could mean for our jobs, families, and future. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious with all this uncertainty, you are not alone. 

As physicians, we care about your health and well-being, and we’ve seen firsthand the impact of stress and anxiety on people’s mental and physical health. Just as doctors helped Manitobans navigate the COVID-19 crisis, we are here to support you through this potential economic crisis as well.

Strategies for Managing Stress and Anxiety

1. Limit Your Exposure to Media

While it’s good to be informed, excessive news consumption — especially social media doom-scrolling or watching endless news coverage — can increase anxiety rather than alleviate it. Set healthy boundaries by checking updates once or twice a day from reputable sources, and remember that news stories often focus on worst-case scenarios. Focus on your daily life and what you can control. This is not avoidance, it’s a proactive way to reduce your stress.

2. Take Care of Your Health

A strong foundation of self-care helps you manage stress more effectively. Prioritize:

• Sleep: Aim for 7 – 9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with nourishing foods that fuel your body and mind.
• Exercise: Physical activity helps regulate stress hormones and improves mood.
• Time for Yourself: Take breaks, practice mindfulness, or engage in activities that bring you joy.

For more ideas, visit Get​tingHealthy​.ca and make a pledge to take one small step toward better health.

3. Focus on the Good

In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to focus on what’s wrong. But, it is important to maintain a balance in our perspective. Remember that there’s still kindness, resilience, and compassion all around us. As Fred Rogers famously said, ​“Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” This is something I see everyday. Whether it’s community members supporting each other or healthcare workers caring for Manitobans despite system challenges, there are always positive stories to remind us of humanity’s strength.

We are seeing our government, business and labour leaders stepping up with ideas and actions to protect us from this economic uncertainty, as they have through other challenges our society has faced. 

And you can help amplify the good by embracing healthy Canadian foods and products, with the knowledge that your actions are part of the bigger solution. 

4. Stay Connected

Interpersonal connection is a powerful antidote to stress. Reconnect with family, friends, and community groups. Talk to people who uplift you, and if you’re struggling, let trusted individuals know. Isolation can worsen anxiety, while meaningful conversations and shared experiences can provide comfort and reassurance.

5. Seek Help When You Need It

If stress or anxiety becomes overwhelming, professional support can make a big difference. There are many resources available depending on your needs:

• Self-Help Books: Cognitive therapy-based approaches like The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook by Edmund J. Bourne or The Worry Cure by Robert Leahy offer effective tools for managing anxiety.
• Professional Support: If you need further help, talk to your family doctor or a mental health professional. 
• Online support and tools: A free, made-in-Manitoba resource for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can be found at CBTm​.ca
• Urgent Help: If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call or text 9−8−8, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24/7. Urgent help is also available through the Crisis Response Centre or your local urgent care or emergency room.
  Find Manitoba Resources here

You Are Not Alone

Uncertainty is part of life, and what we are seeing now is certainly unlike events we’ve seen in recent years. You don’t have to navigate it alone. By focusing on what you can control, taking care of your well-being, and reaching out for support when needed, you can build resilience and find steadiness even in turbulent times.