A person who is feeling hopeless may also have low-self esteem, low self-worth, feelings of powerlessness, have increases in isolating behaviors, and feelings of helplessness. A person who is feeling hopeless may exhibit moods that are dark and low. They may also lose interest in prior activities, events, people or objects they once found enjoyment in, or they may not value things which were important to them before. Hopelessness is very closely linked to poor mental, cognitive, emotional, and physical health.
There is no future for me. It will never get better. No one and nothing will be able to help me. I’ve already given up. I am a lost cause. I have no hope. I will never be happy again.
Loneliness, chronic illness, and low self-esteem are just a few of the common causes of hopelessness. Hopelessness is also listed as a symptom for several behavioral and mental health concerns, such as major depressive disorder, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance dependence, and suicidal ideations. [2] X Expert Source Liana Georgoulis, PsyDLicensed Psychologist Expert Interview. 6 September 2018.
Inner happiness can’t come from outer sources. If you aren’t happy now, you won’t be happy when your circumstances change for the better, either.
For example, you could take a moment to appreciate the free coffee at work or the wildflowers growing along the side of the road.
For instance, maybe you could wash your dishes right away after you cook, apply to one job every day, or start going to bed before midnight. Hopelessness thrives on the idea that nothing will ever change. Challenging this belief will help you start to feel better.
Mindfulness can help you separate yourself from your feelings, which makes it easier to respond to them constructively.
Some good goals to set might include applying for two new jobs or completing one task for work or school every day. If you want to set a big goal for yourself, break it down into smaller sub-goals so you can see your progress more easily.
Don’t isolate yourself, even if you want to be alone. Isolation makes feelings of sadness and hopelessness stronger.
Consistent workouts are better than intense but infrequent workouts, so don’t push yourself too hard.
Deficiencies in B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids may be linked to mood problems. If you’re not getting enough of these nutrients in your diet, consider taking a supplement.
Deficiencies in B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids may be linked to mood problems. If you’re not getting enough of these nutrients in your diet, consider taking a supplement.
If you’re struggling with addiction, help is available. Your national health website is a good place to start looking for recovery resources. In the U. S. , you can visit drugabuse. gov to find treatment options. [10] X Trustworthy Source National Institute on Drug Abuse Agency in the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services devoted to researching drug and drug abuse and educating the public Go to source
Hopelessness is linked to major depressive disorder, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance dependence, and suicidal ideations.
Ask your therapist for recommendations for support groups in your area.
Call your therapist, your local emergency services department, or a suicide hotline, such as the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. [16] X Research source
