In one word, acceptance, right? What about self-knowledge?
Also, it would be interesting to investigate what causes the lack of hope in the first place. If we find out, maybe we could be more proactive.
On a related note, I recently read that the common theory of "chemical imbalance" in the brain was disproven. Also, according to an article headline I have seen, physical exercise is a better cure for depression than the usual drugs.