Hopelessness
Hopelessness
Hopelessness (/hoʊpˈlɛsnəs/) is a state of despair characterized by a lack of faith, optimism, or expectation of positive outcomes.
Etymology
The term "hopelessness" is derived from the Old English word 'hopian', meaning "to wish, expect, look forward (to something)," and the suffix '-less', meaning "without". Thus, hopelessness translates to "without hope or expectation".
Definition
Hopelessness is a negative emotional state and a common symptom in many mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is often associated with feelings of despair, pessimism, and a perceived lack of control over one's life circumstances.
Related Terms
- Despair: A complete loss or absence of hope.
- Pessimism: A tendency to see the worst aspect of things or believe that the worst will happen.
- Depression: A mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life.
- Anxiety: A mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are strong enough to interfere with one's daily activities.
Treatment
Treatment for feelings of hopelessness often involves psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and in some cases, medication. It's important to seek help from a mental health professional if feelings of hopelessness persist.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hopelessness
- Wikipedia's article - Hopelessness
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