Coping with Uncertainty

Hello, I am new here at Olive Branch Counseling Associates. I have the privilege to conduct my undergrad internship here and learn from whom I believe are the best counselors in the area. I currently attend Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights as an accelerated senior. 

If you have not heard, my beloved College is closing at the end of May

after being a staple in the Palos Heights area for 66 years. A board meeting was held on a Monday night and on Tuesday morning, staff and students got a devastating email around 7:30am. Morning classes were cancelled and a 9:30am meeting was set up for all to come and talk about the decision.

When I arrived for the meeting, I learned that the Professors and Staff were currently in a meeting themselves. When the auditorium door pushed open, I saw many of my beloved professors walking out and some were crying. It was something that instantly moved me to compassion for them. I was losing my school, but they were losing their jobs. Most of the professors at Trinity have been teaching there over 20 years. My heart instantly started praying for not only the students but for the staff as well. I ran into my favorite Professor who is also my advisor and we both reached out and hugged. She was concerned about my schooling moving forward and advised me to set up a time to discuss that with her. Of course I was concerned about what my future schooling looked like, but at that moment my upfront concern was how she was doing after learning the devastating news.  

When you feel like the rug has been pulled from under you and your future is no longer set on the path you planned, how do you get through it? 

Here are some practical ways to cope with uncertainty:

• First, Breathe.

            Having a mindful concept of your breathing is a good thing.

It will all work out. It just may not look the way that you initially thought but what if it’s even better than before? So take a deep breath and allow your body to relax.

• Understand that this may be something you can’t control. It’s happening. Do you need to grieve it? Then grieve it. It’s important not to hold on to something outside of your control. Give yourself permission and time to actually feel and process the changes. Focus on positive steps you can take moving forward.  

• Talk to others going through the same thing. 

There is power in engaging with others. It helps you get your feelings out and helps you see that you’re not alone. If others are experiencing uncertainty along with you, lean on each other for support.

• As a Christian, I believe time in prayer with God is always essential. God is our strength in all our circumstances. The peace you desire can definitely be found by leaning on God

If you, or someone you know, is going through uncertain life circumstances, feel free to contact our team of professionals at Olive Branch Counseling Associates. We would love to speak with you and help guide you on a path with renewed hope and vision. 

We are located at 6819-167th St. in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477, 708-633-8000

Jennifer Hauser, Undergrad Intern 2026