Hopelessness manifests itself in us when we face something that seems hopeless. It can cause us to become depressed, anxious, or fearful. We can lose interest in things that once brought us joy and purpose. So, how do we defy hopelessness? Here are 5 ways to fight back when in despair.
Rest
This seems to be such a simple concept, but getting an adequate amount of sleep each day can make all the difference in managing your emotions. When we are tired, all things seem to become exacerbated. Rest is one of the top ways to ward off a hopeless outlook. It doesn’t fix our problems, but it gives us the right frame of mind to manage the things we may face. Depending on your age, there is a set number of hours we need each night, according to medical professionals. Additionally, according to the Bible, God rested. (Genesis 2:2 NKJV) Not that He needed rest, but to show us the importance of setting aside time to rest and be restored.
Practice Healthy Habits
Some natural, healthy habits can help you manage your emotions better, and they can help you put that hopeless feeling away from you. For instance, go outside, breathe fresh air, and stand in the sunlight. (Don’t forget your sunscreen, of course!) Enjoy a piece of fresh fruit, specifically citrus, which has mood-enhancing qualities. Exercise for at least 20 minutes a day. Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health. When we look to scriptures, we find that we are expected to care for our temple. If we do, we reap the rewards. One of them is having a focused mind that can not easily be discouraged.
Count Your Blessings
A thankful heart is a contented heart. Even when facing hardships, we can focus on the good and not become defeated by hopelessness. What are some blessings you see around you? For instance, if you are reading this, you can read. That’s a blessing. Some can’t. I once gave my children a task to walk around the house with sticky notes and a pen. When they found something they were thankful for, they wrote their initial on a sticky note and placed the sticky note on the item. They had about 10 minutes for this activity. There were sticky notes everywhere. Furthermore, the Bible tells us to “Give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)
Laugh
Entertainer Red Skelton said, “No matter what your heartache may be, laughing helps you forget it for a few seconds”. As a professional clown, I have seen firsthand how transformation into my character completely turns any frown upside down. It’s hard to cry when the very nature of a clown entices people to look and usually laugh when they see you! And many times, laughter is contagious!
I recently learned that fake laughter can produce the same chemicals in your body responsible for lifting your mood. So, even when you don’t feel like laughing, fake it! It can have the same effect. Proverbs 17:22 tells us, “A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.”
Stay Connected with a Group
Hopelessness can cause us to avoid social interactions. This is the complete opposite of what psychologists believe we should do. Medicare Mental Health Australia says:
Whether it’s spending time with a friend, chatting to someone, joining a sports team, a choir, or a group of like-minded people, going to a place of worship, or offering to help someone else, staying connected can help to keep you well.
Positive connections can lead to a more fulfilling life. Find a group that sees you and builds you up. The Bible tells us that encouraging one another is one of the main reasons we should attend church. Hebrews 10:25 says, “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.”
Final Thoughts
Hopelessness is temporary. Hang in there and fight. Remember the words of Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” You’ve got this! And God’s got you!
