Why is it important for consumers to spend during a recession?

People put off spending during a recession because they do not have confidence in the market. Consumers do not want to spend large amount of money when they are not sure if they will have jobs to cover these expenses. However, consumer spending is the best way to improve an economy during a recession. This is why many politicians say the economy is looking up and is getting better. If people believe that, then they will start spending more money leading to an actual improvement in the nation's economy.