Hopelessness is a negative emotion that makes people feel as if they are incapable of accomplishing their goals. This emotion is a byproduct of the brain telling you that your life is in an endless downward spiral. If you can relate to this, please continue reading. In this post, we will introduce some insightful tips on how to overcome the feeling of hopelessness. Onward and forward!
Consider That Your Brain Might Be Lying to You
Regaining a sense of confidence requires the ability to discern between feelings and thoughts. Sometimes, it may be thoughts in your brain that evoke a sense of hopelessness. It is easy to become stuck in a cycle of negativity, especially if you are currently struggling to overcome a difficult situation.
When it comes to tackling a problem, you may feel that you have tried every possible solution and failed. However, this may not be true. In fact, this may be a cognitive distortion, which refers to an irrational, and almost always biased thought pattern. If you happen to be a victim of cognitive distortion, try accepting that not all methods are effective. Although the methods you have tried have not worked, this does not mean a solution is not possible. Try to be open to the idea of trying out other possible solutions. This not only allows you to achieve more fruitful outcomes but to also gain a sense of confidence to take on more challenges.
Have a More Positive Mindset
“Having a more positive mindset” is always easier said than done. However, it is one of the most important and effective ways to overcome hopelessness. But how can you even start? A first small step can be finding joy in accomplishing small things. For example, try focusing on how you will feel after settling an outstanding debt, or after finishing a passion project. These feelings can help motivate you to take the first step towards achieving bigger and better goals. At the same time, start to be conscious about when you feel hopeless.
Strangely enough, it is normal for you to feel comfortable with being hopeless. This is simply because it protects you from potential disappointment. For instance, if it feels pointless to worry about paying off a particular financial debt, you may not take the initiative to increase your income or reduce expenses. However, this mindset is harmful in the long run, especially when it comes to financial problems. Staying stuck in a rut can actually cause mental health problems such as stress and depression.
Develop an Action Plan With a Family Member or Friend
If you find it difficult to overcome hopelessness, reach out to a close family member or a friend. This adds to being open to trying alternative solutions. Find people who have your best interest at heart and who can help you obtain a better perspective on your problem. Talking to family and friends can help you to analyse your situation through a different lens, and to support you to overcome your negative emotions.
More importantly, remember to take action. To overcome hopelessness, try to develop an action plan by identifying the steps you are going to take. Determine which of these steps you are going to take first and slowly work towards it. To begin you could develop two or more separate action plans. As you move forward with actionable steps, you can gradually discover a plan that works the best for you. In the words of the late artist Aaliyah, “…If at first you don’t succeed, dust yourself off, and try again…”. You got this!
If All Else Fails, Seek Professional Help
If unattended to, hopelessness can potentially develop into a more severe mental health problem, such as depression and other mood disorders. To manage these problems effectively and overcome hopelessness, it is recommended that you seek professional help from a mental health specialist. A specialist may help identify your needs and provide you with a suitable treatment plan. This may include weekly therapy sessions and the use of medications.
To comfort you, it is perfectly alright for you to be struggling with different problems. You may even feel like your mental health is draining, and that is okay. These are merely roadblocks in your path towards a brighter future. Ultimately, the feeling of hopelessness is just that…a feeling. You have to make the choice to pick yourself up and face your problems (and trust us, you have more than what it takes!). Take comfort in knowing that you have the support of your family members, friends or specialist. These people will help you to discover that things will eventually get better, sooner or later. Don’t give up!
