“Despair is the complete loss of hope that is stripped away with no thought or feeling of possibilities—a state of mind where no expectation of positive outcomes exists. Thoughts crowd our minds like, ‘Things will not get better.’ Desperate thinking envelopes the mind. Panic is the driver where no positive possibilities seem to exist.”

This is a terrible feeling and we can actually become physically sick as a result of ongoing despair. It can hurt our relationships because despair steals energy and fills our hearts, leaving less room to express love and caring. Self-caring is important, along with help from others (perhaps with trauma-informed therapy).

Being in action groups and supporting candidates we believe in, that can be helpful in our reaching for hope and relief from despair. I hope this for you, along with all self-caring possible. Relying on self harming behaviors (using drugs and alcohol for example) is a danger. I wish you recognition of despair and as much recovery as possible in our troubled times.

-Dr Marti

Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified professional for specific concerns.