banner image

What To Do When We Feel Hopeless

Hopeless. The word itself can evoke emotion in anyone. Throughout life, we may find ourselves in a situation where we feel hopeless: an extreme life change such as a divorce, loss of a job, death of a loved one, a medical diagnosis for ourselves or a family member, or being in a place in our lives where we thought everything would be in place, but we find ourselves feeling depressed and anxious on a daily basis.

While it can be very difficult and painful to feel hopeless, this feeling can serve a purpose. It can allow you to ask yourself a few questions that may lead you to find clarity, purpose, or a direction to go in.

When you find yourself in a hopeless spot, try making some important statements to yourself, or asking questions:

There is more than one right answer.

-Have I looked at where there might be an opportunity here?

-What stories am I telling myself? Are they true?

-What can I do to make myself feel steadier? (having a routine, doing some of your favorite things, keeping up with or taking up a hobby can help)

And, don’t forget:

You are the hero of your own story.

You can do this. I’m rooting for you.

Remember how far you have come, remember all you have conquered before, and know that it is healthy and important to reach out for help. Learning coping skills from a trusted therapist can not only help you with your current circumstance, but these skills can be used for future circumstances as well. Arming yourself with skills for the current moment and the future is smart and healthy, but remember, one of the most important things you can arm yourself with is compassion for yourself. Take a moment, breathe, and feel compassion for your heart. Remind yourself: you are the hero. Like a port in a storm, come home to yourself, and give yourself space to breathe, feel, and honor your truth.

Though we do not know what each day will bring, we do know the sun will rise and set, and we do know: there is always hope.

“My sun sets to rise again.”

– Robert Browning

© 2018 – Laura Manderino-Martins- All rights reserved