The phrase "helpless feeling" refers to a state of being where someone feels unable to do anything or change a situation, making them feel weak or powerless. Full definition
Too often, I've heard teachers talk about how helpless they feel when it comes to reaching out to their students. (edutopia.org)
Too many of us are familiar with that completely helpless feeling of horror that accompanies the sight of a vehicle coming from behind us at a high rate of speed. (thegomezfirm.com)
It is a very helpless feeling not knowing whether you will get a job soon, where you are going to live, or how you are going to pay your bills. (thespiffycookie.com)