Despair is defined as the complete loss or absence of hope. If you suffer from depression, it is likely this feeling might come up for you during times when your symptoms are flaring up. Despair and depression can both be worsened by loneliness and isolation, which has naturally been increased in the last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the pandemic began, an online survey by Mental Health America showed that over 80 percent of people scored with moderate to severe symptoms of depression. Hopelessness has been proven to affect overall physical and mental health, so learning to manage these feelings is crucial.
Constantly being told about the physical toll that depression can leave on you likely causes heightened stress, so dwelling on it is not necessary. Having courage in trying times is incredibly difficult, and finding the strength to continue by finding personal meaning is key. Whether it is work, hobbies, or personal relationships, nurturing these things can help you feel like you have purpose, which can decrease the feelings of despair.
Overwhelming levels of stress can make you feel backed into a corner, which might also exacerbate feelings of despair. It is important to realize that you still have the personal freedom to choose how you respond to any given situation, which can help give you a sense of control and peace. When you are analyzing how to respond, find the courage to heal and answer accordingly.
When you’re managing your levels of despair and depression, it is important to remember key ideas that can help you through these feelings. First, remember to meet yourself where you are. Unfortunately, depression is common. It affects millions of people, even if you don’t realize it. Every day with depression is different. It is crucial to take your mental health seriously, and remember that where you are in this moment is not where you will be forever.
Next, allow yourself to feel the negative feelings, but do this constructively. Allow yourself to have off days, but don’t stay in this state. Consider journaling about the experiences you’re having, but also feel free to document when your feelings lift too. Clearly seeing the ups and downs of your mental experiences can help promote self-healing and hope.
Lastly, remind yourself that today does not determine tomorrow. Your feelings today do not control your feelings tomorrow. If you were not as productive as you wanted to be today, that does not mean that tomorrow will be exactly the same. Give yourself patience to accept that some days are bad, and some days are amazing. Think of tomorrow as a fresh start.
Despair and depression are complex and upsetting feelings, but remembering the points discussed above can help combat the negative emotions. Give yourself grace, and carry on. Find things that work for you, and do not put pressure on yourself to continue the practices that do not work. Most importantly, do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if your feelings of depression and despair worsen or start feeling unmanageable.