Self-care and finding hope in uncertain times
Dear College of Education Community,
Hope is hard to find in uncertain times, but is critical for our self-care and wellbeing. Hope is a choice that sustains us, especially when faced with all of the hatred and turmoil in our world. It is through hope that we find our strength and resilience to make the world a better place. Debra M. Kawahara, PhD., APA President, writes about hope in her article “How to cultivate hope in uncertain times” and offers the following strategies:
Prioritize connection and community: In moments of uncertainty, connecting with others can provide a sense of belonging and support. Building and maintaining strong relationships within our communities can foster a collective sense of hope and resilience.
Focus on small, meaningful actions: Sometimes, the enormity of our challenges can feel overwhelming. By focusing on small, meaningful actions, we can create a sense of progress and purpose. These actions, no matter how minor they may seem, contribute to a larger sense of hope and forward momentum.
Observe, notice, and name: Paying attention to our own and others’ thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and then naming them can help us process our experiences and can be powerful in maintaining a hopeful outlook. This mindfulness practice allows us to acknowledge our struggles while also recognizing our capacity for hope.
Include self-care: Taking care of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being is essential. Engaging in activities that bring joy, relaxation, and fulfillment can replenish our hope and resilience.
Remember the resilience and strength of those who came before us: Reflecting on the lived experiences and stories of those who have endured challenging times and uncertainty can inspire us. Their resilience and strength serve as a reminder that we are here today because of them, and we, too, can navigate and overcome our current challenges.
Finally, Dr. Kawahara reminds us that “Hope is a powerful, internal process that sustains us through uncertainty. By prioritizing connection, focusing on small actions, practicing mindfulness, engaging in self-care, and drawing inspiration from the past, we can cultivate and maintain hope. Let us choose hope, for it is through hope that we find the strength to persevere and thrive.”
To read more, please go to https://www.apa.org/monitor/2025/06/cultivating-hope-uncertain-times
For a list of other self-care options, please go to our COE self-care website for resources for faculty, staff, students, and the community at https://www.csun.edu/eisner-education/self-care/articles-information-self-care
May we all find hope in uncertain times!
Warmly,
Shari