Loss of hope may be indicated by which signs?

• A. Optimism and energy
• B. Deep sadness, withdrawal, possible suicidal thoughts
• C. Heightened awareness of surroundings
• D. Persistent anger

Answer: (B)

Hopelessness is most clearly reflected by a mood of deep sadness combined with withdrawal from others and activities, potentially accompanied by suicidal thoughts. These signs point to a significant risk that requires assessment and intervention. Optimism and energy indicate the opposite, not loss of hope. Heightened awareness of surroundings can occur in anxious or high-arousal states, not specifically hopelessness. Persistent anger can occur in distress but doesn’t capture the core affective change associated with losing hope as directly as withdrawal and suicidal thoughts do. In practice, noticing these signs should trigger risk assessment and appropriate safety measures.