PsychologyAugust 9, 2026

helplessness

HELP-les-nes

Definition

A state of feeling unable to act effectively, take control, or change one's situation, often experienced by those suffering from psychological trauma.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'helples', combined with the suffix '-ness'. It combines the Old English 'help' (to assist) with the suffix '-less' (without), meaning the state of being without help.

In the news

The article uses the word to describe a painful emotional state that soldiers with PTSD may struggle to openly discuss or address. It is highlighted as one of the specific, difficult feelings that this experimental therapy aims to help patients process.

80% of Soldiers in Israeli Study See PTSD Symptoms Ease With MDMA Therapy, According to Study

Read the full article ↗

The Media Line

Related words

altar

A sacred table or elevated place used for religious rituals, offerings, or as a focal…

Psychology

antiseptic

Characterized by an excessively clean, sterile, or clinical appearance that lacks warmth,…

Psychology

auspicious

Conducive to success; characterized by favorable signs or promising circumstances.

Psychology

bifurcation

The division or splitting of something into two distinct parts or branches.

Psychology

censured

To express severe disapproval of someone or something, typically in a formal or public…

Psychology

cleanse

To remove negative or unwanted energy, emotions, or influences from one's environment or…

Psychology

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.