The pace and weight of the world can feel like a lot right now. For some, it’s becoming harder to hold onto hope as uncertainty, fear, and a deep sense of sadness take root. There seems to be a growing tension between what we wish for and what we believe is possible, leaving people feeling heavy, discouraged, and unsure about what the future holds.

Even as we remain more connected than ever, many people feel alone. Mental health challenges are rising. Confidence in systems meant to support us has weakened. Job insecurity, burnout, political polarization, widening inequality, and growing climate anxiety weigh heavily on individuals, families, and communities.

Hope is not a passive state. It is an active process of erosion. In my latest book, I Hope So: How to Choose Hope Even When It’s Hard, I explore, among other things, the effects of hopelessness on individuals, families, organizations, and society as a whole.

When people lose hope, the consequences are profound. We stop imagining a brighter future. We stop recognizing our own strengths, talents, gifts, and potential. Goals feel out of reach, effort feels pointless, and the belief that our actions matter slowly fades away. Apathy and cynicism creep in. Physical,........

© Psychology Today