What are *your* personal methods for not succumbing to despair? (Not looking for advice per se, just want to know how you personally keep your head up.)
There's not anything methodical about it, but I do not keep up with any news outlets, at least not directly. When I learn things (like politics, worldwide news, the occasional new discovery, etc.) I'll make sure that the sources are reputable and do what I can about it if there's any action to be made. Otherwise, I try my best to accept what I can't control (doesn't always work, I always wish I could do more), and then I have my own life to worry about.
Both external and internal sources of stress tend to generate a numbness and sense of detachment in me that so far despair just can't reach deeply enough, which I recognize isn't much better. It is a battle I know how to fight, though, by knowing that even if I feel detached my actions don't have to be.
I am interested in supporting things in the ways that I can, even if it's incredibly small. Little donations if I'm able, sharing links at least if I can't. Voting and filling out surveys. This is a more specific example, but if there's a country attempting to raise more queer stories and awareness (often through media) and it's known for either longer term queer suppression or there's a recent rise in conservative movements, I will find out how I can support it. It feels incredibly bare minimum, but I saw Thailand legalize same-sex marriage this year and I'm so happy for them!
There's also a number of things I turn to for comfort. Like you saw before, I am starting to crochet again, which has been nice. Still not done with the hat, but I think I am getting somewhere. I have a handful of personal goals that I hope to fulfill regardless of what's coming in the near future. And I have people close to me to talk to when things do feel like too much, and I'm extremely grateful for them.
This was a really interesting question, thanks for asking! I hope that you're able to find a way that works for you, and it's totally fine if it's nothing like how I deal with things. I definitely don't think mine is anywhere near the best.
I do want to encourage anyone reading that, if you live in the US, VOTE, and if not, please keep track of local political movements and do what you're able to support whatever brings people closer to earning more rights and resources to live better lives.
