some words of affirmation
Pessimism isn't harm reduction or enlightened pragmatism. It is anxiety made manifest. It gives us permission to give up. It saves us from the effort of trying. When we make no gains, we are protected from loss.
Optimism is motivating, and motivation leads to action. Even if the worst does come to pass, optimism will have left you in a much better position than if you hadn't tried at all.
I have a nephew who is about to turn 18; my niece is going to be 15. My little sister hasn't even had kids yet, but she will one day. I can't imagine telling them to just give up and accept the world is ending and there is no hope.
I was also young once. My younger self put his trust in me to stay strong and keep moving forward. I owe it to him to remain optimistic, too. The same way my wife deserves a husband who will live life joyfully, and work to achieve a happy future together with her.
I don't know what's going to happen and there are no easy answers for anything. But I know what doesn't help. I also know that one of the most helpful things you can do is be kind to yourself. It just happens to also be one of the hardest.
You might not be able to change the world. But you can change your own world. And when you change yourself, the world changes in turn to meet you.