Learned Helplessness

Learned helplessness is a psychological state where a person or animal feels incapable of changing a negative situation because they have repeatedly experienced that efforts to improve it are ineffective. Over time, this sense of powerlessness develops, leading to feelings of hopelessness and passive resignation, even when opportunities for change arise. It often results from ongoing exposure to uncontrollable stressors, diminishing motivation to try again or seek solutions. This phenomenon can impact mental health, contributing to depression and anxiety, and underscores the importance of fostering a sense of control and resilience in challenging circumstances.