In uncertain times like these, one thing seems clear: the world is facing some incredibly challenging times.
From climate concerns and global conflicts to political tensions and economic worries – there’s a lot weighing on our minds and hearts these days.
And when the problems seem so much bigger than any one person can deal with, it’s easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed, helpless, and hopeless. If you’ve been feeling this way – constantly scrolling through the latest headlines or losing sleep over things you can’t control – you’re not alone.
And as tempting as it can be to hide away from the world and isolate yourself, there’s real power in connecting with others. Whether you visit a friend for a coffee, join a new club, or volunteer at a local shelter, forming meaningful relationships with others can bring light to the darkness you’re feeling.
Not sure where to start? In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the things you can do to help you when you’re feeling hopeless and looking for ways to connect with others.
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
Finding the Good When You Feel Hopeless
The benefits of helping others
It’s no secret that helping and connecting with others makes you feel good, but did you know that there’s actual evidence to show that being kind to others boosts your mood and emotional well-being? Some research shows that those who consistently help others experience better moods, higher self-esteem, and greater overall satisfaction.
When you connect and do something good for others, your brain releases feel-good chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. Plus, it’s the perfect way to find a sense of purpose and belonging when you’re feeling down or hopeless.
How to stay connected in challenging times
You may not have much control over the big issues of the world right now. But there are some things you can do to stay grounded, connected, and calm.
Get out of the house
It’s tempting to stay in when things seem scary in the outside world, but getting out for fresh air can do wonders for your physical and mental health. Go for a walk, do your grocery shopping, eat your lunch outside, or sit and read in a park where other people are also out and about living their lives. Even this small act of connecting with your community can help fight feelings of hopelessness and loneliness.
Tip: Try going someplace new! Take your daily walk in a different park or try that new restaurant you spotted in the paper. Visiting new places opens you up to social interactions with people you might not usually bump into.
Spend time with friends
Reach out to those you trust most and spend some quality time with them – go for a walk together, or catch that new release in the cinema. If you can’t meet them in person, catch up over FaceTime, or simply check in with a quick call or text. Staying connected with people you care for – and care for you – will help you feel less isolated and reinforce your feelings of belonging.
Join a new club, class, or sport
Trying something new with people you don’t know can be scary. Whether it’s a new class at the gym, a book club, or cooking classes, stepping out of your comfort zone and forming new connections can be uncomfortable at first. But focusing on activities that bring you joy is great for your emotional health, and the social connections you’ll gain will help you feel less helpless when times are tough.
Online forums
If you find connecting with others in person difficult, there are other ways to connect and make new friends – online. Look for forums, Facebook groups, Subreddits, or Discord servers you can join where people share your interests. It’s a great way to stay connected, channel your energy in a positive direction, practice your communication skills, and even learn something new along the way!
Volunteer
It might sound counterintuitive, but when you feel hopeless, one of the best things you can do is give hope to those around you. Volunteering at a local homeless shelter, dog shelter, or food bank can help you feel connected and give you a new sense of purpose and perspective. When you find ways to connect with and give back to your local community, you remind yourself that you’re not helpless to make a change.
Tip: If you’re unable to commit to a volunteer activity, even something as simple as a random act of kindness can help you feel like you’re making a difference.
Get professional help
If your feelings of hopelessness become too much, and you’re finding yourself struggling to get out of the house or connect with others, it could be time to reach out for professional help. Don’t struggle alone. There are people out there ready to listen and help when you’re ready, whether it’s through local support groups or by speaking to a therapist. You deserve to feel valued and feel heard, too.
Final tips:
- Start small: Trying to change too much too soon can be overwhelming. If you’re struggling, make small changes instead – small, consistent steps make a big difference over time.
- Take your time: Take inspiration from our list, but don’t try to implement them all at once. Focus on one thing at a time.
- Be kind to yourself: Practice some self-compassion. Putting yourself out there can be tricky, so take it one day at a time, and don’t beat yourself up if things don’t go to plan.
Human connection is an essential part of living. In times of despair and hopelessness, forming genuine connections with others and doing simple acts of kindness bring us together and give us that little bit of control amid the chaos.
There’s a lot going on in the world right now. But you don’t have to carry it on your own.
The team at Western Tidewater Community Services Board (WTCSB) is here to help.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, or you’re struggling to meet new people and enjoy life the way you used to, we have a warm, welcoming team of professionals ready and waiting to help.
WTCSB offers comprehensive support, including mental health services, substance use treatment, and crisis intervention across Suffolk, Franklin, Southampton County, and Isle of Wight County.
Reach out to us today and get the help you deserve, or come visit our 24/7 Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic and get support today.
