This is the correct response, whether or not things are objectively getting worse (I tend to agree with OP). The problem is this seems difficult; in reality, it's as simple as looking for ways to be kind to people or improve your community. Pick up a piece of trash, smile, wave, say good morning to people. Help someone who's dropped their things pick them up. Personally whenever interacting with anyone I try to make their day a little brighter. It can seem like this type of thing doesn't make a difference, but it's contagious. Someone seeing a person be kind to a stranger will be more likely to emulate that in the future. We can change the world one person at a time.