There’s a lot of negativity in the world around us right now.
From global conflicts to issues in our own communities, it seems no matter where you look, there’s more bad news. And when catastrophe after catastrophe seems to pile up day after day, it’s natural to feel the weight of it after a while – feeling sad, anxious, and even hopeless.
But, thankfully, there are still good things happening in the world. They just don’t always get the same amount of screen time as the bad things.
If you’re feeling a little hopeless about the state of the world right now, we get it. In this blog, we’ll shine a light on all the good things, bringing you some good news stories – on both a global scale and from our own backyard here in Virginia. Plus, we’ll share why it’s important to shift your mindset to see the positive, and how to get involved in the good stuff yourself!
This is part of a series on managing feelings of hopelessness. Find the other articles linked below:
Feeling Hopeless? How to Manage Anxiety: Body Edition
Feeling Hopeless? How to Manage Anxiety: Mind Edition
Connecting with Others When You Feel Helpless
Where are all the good news stories?
The truth is, a lot of times, the good news stories simply don’t make the news. Every day, there are good deeds and acts of kindness taking place that go unseen. From the powers that be to our very own neighborhoods, people are fighting for what’s right, helping, and supporting each other – often behind the scenes, where we don’t get to see it for ourselves. Let’s take a glimpse behind the bad-news curtain.
Good news stories from around the world
You’ve probably seen plenty of bad news on a global scale recently. But as bad as things might be, there are still good things happening around the globe. Here are just a few of our favorite stories:
- From Oregon to Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee, one man spent 2 years carrying a 75-pound cross across the country to raise awareness of the housing crisis and advocate for change.
- An anonymous donation at Dearington Elementary School For Innovation in Lynchburg, VA meant that 50 children were gifted with new bikes for their attendance, work ethic, and positivity.
- Scientists in Japan have developed a new seawater-degradable plastic that breaks into nutritious compounds for ocean-borne bacteria in 2-3 hours. It’s non-toxic, non-flammable, doesn’t emit CO2, and won’t leach chemicals or microplastics – talk about a good news day!
- One man in India started a free swimming club to help prevent drownings. So far, he’s taught more than 10,000 people to swim safely – completely free of charge.
- Thanks to an expansion of their free lunch scheme, the UK will offer free school meals to 100,000 children from low-income families.
In a time when many people feel powerless or disconnected, acknowledging these acts of kindness reminds us that hope can be rekindled through actions – both big and small.
Good people doing good things in Virginia
Here are just some of the ways local people are spreading good in the world today:
Do Good Virginia
DoGood Virginia is a volunteering and community organization based in Virginia. Their goal is to empower, uplift, and support Virginians through acts of kindness, volunteering opportunities, and providing community-driven events and initiatives. They advocate for change on important topics, rally support for key issues, and collaborate with advocacy groups, community leaders, and decision makers.
Serve Virginia
Serve Virginia is a statewide initiative connecting volunteers with service opportunities across communities. Serve supports programs like AmeriCorps and promotes civic engagement in areas like education, disaster relief, and youth mentorship. Whether it’s mentoring students or planting trees, Serve is doing its part to provide great services for communities, bringing people together, and giving individuals a sense of purpose again.
Charlottesville Area Tree Stewards
Charlottesville Area Tree Stewards are a group of volunteers dedicated to promoting healthy urban and rural forests in Virginia. Their goal is to raise awareness and encourage others to learn about the value of trees so that they’ll be cared for for generations to come. As tree stewards, they care for trees, remove invasive plants, restore woodlands, plant and grow trees, offer classes to share their knowledge, and host events to encourage community involvement.
Why shifting the focus matters
Research shows that over time, our brains have been hardwired to focus on negative things to stay alert to threats to our survival. Today, we may have fewer bears trying to kill us (thankfully), but our brains are prone to negativity bias.
It’s important to stay informed about the world. But a constant feed of bad news can have a negative impact on our mental well-being and exacerbate existing mental health conditions. What starts out feeling like a bad day can turn into prolonged feelings of hopelessness.
This is why it’s so important for us to make a conscious effort to shift our focus to the positive when possible, reducing how much negative news we consume to prioritize our mental health.
What can you do to feel more optimistic?
You don’t have to carry a cross for 2 years or teach 10,000 people to swim. But you can take small steps today to get out into your community and make a difference. Here are some ways you can make a positive change:
Join a volunteer group
Look for volunteer opportunities in your local community, whether it’s giving a helping hand to a homeless shelter, a soup kitchen, or an animal rescue center. However you choose to volunteer, giving back to others is a guaranteed way to see the good in the world and in others.
Donate to charity
Make a financial contribution to a global cause you care about. Or, clear out your home and donate any old clothes or furniture you no longer need to a local charity organization. Even a small gift can make a big impact in your neighborhood, and around the world.
Small acts of kindness
Simple gestures can make a big difference. Help out in your local community by doing something small today, like paying forward the next person’s coffee or helping a neighbor with their groceries. These are easy ways to spread more positivity and bring joy to the people in your area. And the best part? You’ll feel good doing it, too!
Notice the good in your life
Life can be busy and stressful, and we often forget to stop and appreciate the little things. Grab a journal or a piece of paper and write down 3 things you’re grateful for today. It can be anything – from beating the crowds at Target or someone holding the elevator door for you, to simply enjoying your morning coffee. Recognizing the small wins each day helps us balance out the negative, and it can give your mental well-being a boost when hopelessness creeps in.
Here to listen when you need us
If the negativity from the outside world is affecting your day-to-day life, it might be time to reach out for support. If you’re struggling, talk to a loved one, or lean on a friend for help.
If you would like the support of a professional therapist, The Western Tidewater Community Services Board (WTCSB) team is ready to help. We offer comprehensive mental health support services for anyone feeling hopeless.
Reach out to us today and get the help you deserve by talking to a trained counselor, or come visit our 24/7 Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic and get support today.
