
Thank you for listening and supporting This Might Help
In this week's episode we explore the circle of control, a simple but powerful framework that can shift worry and help us to handle stress.
You can find us on socials @thismighthelppodcast - Instagram and TikTok
The full video version of this episode is available on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@thismighthelppodcast
Some of the key research we chat about can be found below:
Arslan, C., DilmAç, B., & Hamarta, E. (2009). Coping with stress and trait anxiety in terms of locus of control: A study with Turkish university students. Social Behavior and Personality: An International Journal, 37(6), 791-800. https://doi.org/10.2224/sbp.2009.37.6.791
Cheng, C., Lau, H. P. B., & Chan, M. P. S. (2014). Coping flexibility and psychological adjustment to stressful life changes: A meta-analytic review. Psychological Bulletin, 140(6), 1582-1607. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0037913
Fielder, D., & Steinbeis, N. (2024). Sense of control buffers against stress. eLife. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.105025
Li, W., Zhao, Z., Chen, D., Kwan, M.-P., & Tse, L. A. (2025). Association of health locus of control with anxiety and depression and mediating roles of health risk behaviors among college students. Scientific Reports, 15, 7565. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-91522-x
Some additional resources can be found here:
https://positivepsychology.com/circles-of-influence/
Covey, S. R. (1989). The 7 habits of highly effective people: Powerful lessons in personal change. Free Press.
If you or a loved one needs further support, we strongly encourage you to speak with your GP, psychologist, or another qualified healthcare professional.
Additional support can be found through:
Beyond Blue - https://www.beyondblue.org.au 1300 22 4636
LifeLine - https://988lifeline.org/get-help/ 13 11 14
Headspace - https://headspace.org.au 1800 650 890 (for those aged 25 or under)