​In today's world, it is easy to get angry or anxious and wonder what the future holds. This is especially true for your teenagers. Share the information in this article with them to help ensure they have the tools needed to get through tough times.

 You might be worried about how you or others may be affected by what you see on the news every day, and situations can feel completely out of your control. Worrying and asking, “what if?" can lead to emotional and mental exhaustion.

Some signs you may be overloaded are:

• You have racing thoughts.
  
• You have difficulty concentrating on your daily tasks.
• You feel your worry, anxiety or anger never really goes away.
• You can't relax.
• You experience physical symptoms, like body aches, muscle tension, stomach issues or trouble sleeping.

As changes take place in the world, seek ways to take control of the things you can. Here are some ways you can find control in your life:

Focus on the present. Nobody can say what will happen in the future. If you are becoming overwhelmed about the future's uncertainty, stop yourself and take a moment to look around and think about what is going on in your life right now.

Make some lists to help keep you grounded. What is good in your life? Write down the things you are grateful for. What things can you change? Set some goals to change those things.

Seek out reputable sources of information. Many articles you see on social media or online have headlines designed to draw you in, but they aren't always accurate. Search for the facts.

Step away from media. It's important to be informed, but it's also okay to take a break. If conversations on social media, the TV or the radio are sucking you in and making you feel more anxious or angry, stay away from them for a while. The news and online discussions can wait until you feel calm again.

Surround yourself with support. Sometimes just spending time with family or close friends can make you feel more secure and provide comfort when world or local events are troubling you. Talk to a trusted adult about your feelings.

Empower yourself. You can be a change agent. You can pray for others. You can be involved in supporting others – volunteer your time, be a blood donor, work to raise money for causes that really speak to you. Set goals to make a difference through your future education and career choices.

Know that not all people are bad. If you feel yourself doubting this to be true, go to your local shelter, church or hospital and find ways to volunteer. As you work beside the leaders of these organizations, you will find they are there because they simply care about others and want to help others.

Above all, make sure you take care of yourself. When you are taking care of yourself, you are better equipped to make wise choices about how you can contribute to making the world a better place.

Visit our resource page on feeling overwhelmed to learn tips like 10 ways to stay grounded and 99 coping skills.

If you need somebody to talk to, call the Boys Town National Hotline, answered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at 800-448-3000 or text VOICE to 20121.

If you need somebody to talk to, call the Boys Town National Hotline, answered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at 800-448-3000 or text VOICE to 20121.

Visit our resource page on feeling overwhelmed to learn tips like 10 ways to stay grounded and 99 coping skills.