Accessing hope in times of distress, conflict, and uncertainty can be challenging. Our fear and anxiety can keep us focused on worst-case scenarios until we feel exhausted, helpless, and hopeless. We can become stuck in deep despair and begin to believe there is no way forward or out. How can we renew our sense of possibility, agency, and hope?

Unlock the Benefits of Hope for a Healthier Mind

Hope is the belief that our future will be better than today and that we can contribute to that outcome. It is not a passive perspective of wishful thinking but an active focus on what is possible and how we can get there. Hope motivates us to persevere, explore a new path, seek help, and be a help to someone else.

Hope is not just a feeling; it's a choice. And choosing hopeful practices can yield tremendous benefits. Those who embrace hope adapt better to adversity, have a strong sense of purpose, have lower chances of developing mental disorders, and exhibit healthier behaviors. By choosing hope, we can foster an optimistic worldview grounded in connection, purpose, and our ability to improve our lives and the world around us.

Choose Hope: A Proven Strategy for Building Resilience

Practicing hope fosters the resilience we need to process the demands and losses of life, allowing us to remember that our struggles are often temporary and that we can envision a better future. Realizing that what seems insurmountable today will likely be more manageable tomorrow can motivate us to keep moving toward healing and growth.

Here are some ideas for keeping hope active and alive in your life:

• Claim hope as a value in your life, as something that is important to you and brings meaning and purpose to your life.
• Incorporate daily or regular practices that cultivate hope, such as meditation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy. These activities can help you stay connected to your values and goals, even during difficult times. Share your experiences of hope. Sharing stories of hope can reinforce our own hopefulness and inspire others.

• Connect with family and good friends for fun and encouragement. It's important to cultivate communities that value hope. Pay attention to how others express themselves and be willing to shift the narrative. Negativity and anxiety can be contagious, yet calm and hopefulness can also ripple out to positively impact others. By connecting with these communities, you can feel supported and connected in your journey towards hope.

Take the First Step: How to Seek Help When You Need It Most

Remember, it's okay to ask for help. Be proactive in seeking help from others. You do not need to wait until you feel overwhelmed and alone. Talk with a trusted friend, pastor, or family member. And if you continue to feel hopeless, remember that professional help is always available. You are not alone in this journey.

The Methodist Healthcare Employee Assistance Program is here for you. Call us at 901-683-5658 or visit methodisteapcanhelp.org for more information.

Renee Dillard, LCSW, CEAP, DMin

Director of EAP & Community Behavioral Health

Renee Dillard is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (licensed in TN, AR, and MS) and a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP). A native Memphian, Renee earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Memphis State University, and Masters of Science in Social Work from The University of Tennessee. An Ordained Minister in the United Methodist Church, Renee earned her Masters of Divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary and completed her Doctor of Ministry studies in Faith and Health/Pastoral Therapy.

Renee has experience in behavioral health, community-based social work, ministry, grief and loss, and nonprofit leadership. She is passionate about promoting healing and hope for individuals, families, and our community. Renee loves time with her family, meaningful conversations, getting lost in a good book, and exploring nature through a long walk on a beautiful day.