Five years after my mother’s passing, I still wrestle with feelings of hopelessness.
One night, I found myself staring at her empty bed, recalling my efforts to care for her and the children I was responsible for, who are now gone. The sense of emptiness and loneliness is profound. I am gradually learning to accept that I may need to navigate life on my own.
To cope, I engage in small activities that uplift my mood and focus on prayer, surrendering my anxieties to God. It’s crucial to allow oneself to feel emotions without judgment, take small daily steps, and reach out to trusted individuals for support while also prioritizing self-care. Pray, but also remembr to care for ourselves.
— Cristelle Amigos Abelarde
Being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) presents its own challenges, particularly regarding feelings of isolation and helplessness caused by being away from family. I manage these feelings by consciously shifting my focus from negative to positive thoughts, reconnecting with God through prayer and scripture, and holding onto the belief that God is always present, making everything possible.
— Ofelia Lazarte
My family’s feelings of hopelessness peaked during my father’s unjust legal case. We eventually recognized that true justice comes from God, not this world. What we needed most was inner peace and unwavering hope through sincere prayer and acceptance of our circumstances. I express gratitude for this journey, thankful for the challenges faced, as they have allowed us to find happiness and maintain hope for future challenges. Thank you, God, for allowing us to transform this experience into something positive in our lives.
— Ria Manipol
During difficult times of feeling trapped and exhausted, I learned to stop overwhelming myself by concentrating on manageable tasks. This sometimes involved stepping back and allowing myself to rest without guilt. I found comfort in simple pleasures, such as listening to good music and praying while surrendering my concerns to God. I realized that hopelessness is temporary; with patience and breathing space, approaching life one day at a time has proven beneficial.
— Cristy Lyn Alcover Moreno
I frequently deal with feelings of hopelessness, often feeling lonely or disconnected, even while surrounded by others. Though I usually cope independently, the emptiness can weigh heavily on me, and I aspire to wake up with renewed hope and a smile. My determination is strong; I refuse to give in to despair.
— Early Parcon
I find myself in a constant state of hopelessness and depression. To cope, I keep busy with various tasks like cooking and cleaning, merely to pass the time. I often start multiple projects without finishing any. At times, I feel the urge to lie down and pray for everything to improve by morning.
— Malou Villafranca
