Re-Talk #06: Maintaining Sanity in an Era of Financial Uncertainty

Re-Talk #06: Maintaining Sanity in an Era of Financial Uncertainty

Lately, our social media timelines have been flooded with discouraging economic news, ranging from the weakening currency and soaring prices of basic necessities to the threat of layoffs looming over various job sectors. This global financial uncertainty is gradually taking a toll on our daily lives. As a result, it is no surprise that many of us are starting to feel anxious: “Will my savings be enough?”, “What if I lose my job?”, or “What will my financial situation look like in the coming months?”.

On Friday (17/07/26), Relive Psychological Service Center (along with Parenta Nagata Sari, S.Psi., co-founder of Kelana Jiwa) hosted Re-Talk Series #06 titled “In This Economy: How to Stay Calm Amidst Financial Uncertainty?”. Re-Talk is a series of talk shows held on the Instagram Live platform @Relive_id, where we discuss mental health topics with experts. This series is designed to raise mental health awareness and serve as a resource for individuals seeking to improve their mental well-being. In this session, we explored how the phenomenon of economic uncertainty impacts mental health, and what we can do to maintain our sanity in the midst of an economic storm.

Agata explained that psychologically, humans have a fundamental tendency to seek safety and certainty. When the economy fluctuates, our sense of security vanishes, and our brain automatically prepares for the worst-case scenario. This triggers a condition known as Financial Anxiety: when a person feels anxious, worried, or uneasy when thinking about or facing their financial situation.

Feeling anxious about financial adequacy is a normal—even healthy and adaptive response if the anxiety makes us more alert, frugal, and wise in making financial decisions. However, it becomes a warning sign when it starts dominating our thoughts all the time and becomes difficult to control.

Psychological Strategies to Manage Financial Anxiety

If you're starting to feel anxious, try following these practical steps!

1. Shift Your Questions

   When negative thoughts arise, such as "What if my income isn't enough?", immediately recognize that it is merely an anxiety, not a guaranteed reality. Reframe the question from "What if...?" to "What is one small step I can take today?".

2. Pause and Take A Breath

When you start to feel panicked, take a moment to pause. Practice a simple breathing technique, write down the points you're worried about on paper, or discuss them with someone you trust before making any major financial decisions.

3. Create a Realistic Financial Plans

   Financial planning won't solve economic problems overnight. However, having a clear roadmap or goal gives our brain a sense of control, which in turn helps relieve anxiety.

“We cannot control the direction of the global economy, but we always have full control over how we respond to it,” quoted Agata.

Financial struggles are no small matter. If financial anxiety starts interfering with your daily activities and quality of life, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Relive Psychological Service Center offers counseling services to help you navigate through these tough times.

Re-Talk #06: Maintaining Sanity in an Era of Financial Uncertainty