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Everyone is visited by thoughts regarding their destiny and position in the world at some point. However, when these thoughts leave one feeling stuck and questioning their own worth, it is referred to as an existential crisis. This topic will be discussed in the upcoming edition of the psychology guidebook.
What is existential crisis?
Existential crisis, a psychological condition akin to depression, emerges when an individual struggles to uncover meaning in life. Its moniker, existentialism, is derived from a renowned philosophical movement. Søren Kierkegaard, one of the movement’s progenitors, inscribed in his journal that “what I need is to get clear about what I must do, not what I must know…find the truth, the idea for which I am willing to live and die.” The absence of such an idea, the central passion of life, leads to disinterest. Kierkegaard contended that society fixates too heavily on attaining outcomes and profits at the cost of the human experience.
Jean-Paul Sartre, a leading existentialist in the 20th century, considered freedom as an essential component of life. He perceived it not as a license to do nothing, but as an opportunity to determine one’s own path. Nevertheless, this liberty is countered by the need to conform to societal norms and meet various standards. Ultimately, this contradiction engenders feelings of estrangement.
Psychoanalyst Eric Erickson named this state as the identity crisis in 1970. A person grappling with it experiences intense anxiety due to an inability to answer the question, “who am I?”
Existential crises are a natural part of life that offers various opportunities, according to contemporary psychologists. We face decisions such as choosing a profession, starting a family, and determining where to live, as well as what to believe in. Fear of committing an error and making the incorrect choice contributes to anxiety and triggers an existential crisis.
It is not categorized as a mental illness, though psychologists recognize a set of symptoms linked with this condition, such as feelings of helplessness, despair, and a sense of meaningless life. Individuals experiencing an existential crisis often lack confidence in themselves and their choices, feel afraid, anxious, and lonely.
This state can manifest at different points in life, but the likelihood of experiencing it rises at particular junctures. For instance, the “sophomore slump” is when one doubts the validity of their profession choice. Frequently, at this stage, students abandon university and attempt another field.
The “quarter-life crisis” follows between the ages of 20 and 30. At this stage, individuals must commence their career, determine their relationships, and preserve friendships. Frequently, the emotions of those facing this crisis are belittled. It is believed that the age of 25 is the best time of life, and all issues are trivial. In reality, it is vital to pass through this crisis and find answers to questions rather than disregard them.
Between the ages of 40 and 60, the “midlife crisis” is characterized by a strong desire to alter everything and start life afresh. During this time, individuals reevaluate their accomplishments and search for themselves again. They might end their marriage, swap their dependable hatchback for a motorcycle, relinquish a managerial role, and move to the countryside. It is also crucial to discover new purposes in life to keep it going.
Furthermore, a “late-age crisis” emerges after the age of 60, which involves regret over lost opportunities. At this stage, it is vital to acknowledge one’s past successes and mistakes, as well as the limitations associated with aging, and find new reasons for happiness.
Thoughts and phrases that indicate an existential crisis include:
- Questioning one’s identity and purpose with statements like “Who am I?” and “What is the meaning of my life?”
- Feeling unfulfilled and dissatisfied with one’s accomplishments and progress in life, such as “I thought I would achieve more by now” and “I chose the wrong profession and wasted a lot of time.”
- Struggling with decision-making and feeling uncertain about one’s actions, as seen in “I’m always doing the wrong thing” and “I don’t know where to go, so I’m just going with the flow.”
- Feeling isolated or disconnected from others, such as “It seems like everyone, except for me, has a plan.”
- Experiencing significant life changes, such as losing a job, getting divorced, or moving, and feeling unsure about how to move forward.
- Considering making changes to one’s career or education, such as “It’s time to change your profession, enroll in courses, and apply for a second degree.”
What is the cause of an existential crisis?
Due to awareness of one’s own mortality
An existential crisis can occur at various life stages when individuals assess their lives and evaluate whether their achievements align with their happiness. They may recognize that time is passing rapidly and may feel the urge to accomplish something meaningful, whether they are 25 or 70 years old. Moreover, a significant life event such as an illness or the loss of a loved one can also trigger such a crisis.
Because of the conflict between freedom and responsibility
Our desire for personal freedom and the ability to make our own choices come with repercussions. In many cases, we are unable to act according to our wishes as we have commitments and obligations towards others. For instance, we may long to embark on a multi-month excursion, but our family responsibilities and crucial work commitments may prevent us from doing so. Such circumstances may result in a sense of discontent with our lives and, in turn, raise questions about the purpose of our existence that we must address.
Due to alienation
Being separated from loved ones and experiencing loneliness, along with a lack of meaningful relationships, can also lead to introspection and cause us to question the direction of our lives. Positive connections and communication with others can bring comfort and happiness, while isolation can cause feelings of sadness and a desire for change.
Due to the lack of meaning
When an individual finds the purpose of their life in their work, a particular project, or their family, they can live in harmony with themselves and have a positive outlook on life. However, feeling like life lacks meaning can lead to an identity crisis and a sense of confusion about one’s role in the world.
Due to inability to express oneself
Frequently, individuals restrict themselves from expressing certain emotions, such as fear or pain, believing that doing so will make them happier. However, this false belief often results in artificial happiness, and the inability to experience a broad range of emotions can lead to feelings of emptiness and a personal crisis.
What are the risks associated with experiencing an existential crisis?
An individual experiencing an existential crisis may exhibit symptoms akin to depression, such as loss of interest in activities, fatigue, headaches, constant sadness, feelings of hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts. Moreover, they may experience anxiety related to their lack of purpose in life, achievements, and plans. This anxiety differs from everyday stress factors as it can be triggered by anything that makes one ponder about the meaning of their existence and place in the world.
These thoughts can develop into intrusive thoughts that are typical of existential obsessive-compulsive disorder. The individual may feel a constant urge to ask themselves unanswerable questions. Unlike depression, an existential crisis stems from dissatisfaction with one’s career or relationships. However, it is possible to overcome this state of being.
How should one approach an existential crisis?
Although there is no designated treatment for an existential crisis, seeking professional help is recommended if an individual experiences extreme anxiety or apathy. Medication and psychotherapy can be beneficial in such instances.
Furthermore, it is vital to alter one’s outlook on the existential crisis. Rather than regarding it as a dead end in life, it can be viewed as a chance for self-reflection, personal growth, and development.
It is crucial to continue searching for answers to significant questions while simultaneously focusing on these aspects.
Meaning
Determining the significance of your existence and what matters to you is crucial in making your life meaningful to the world around you. It is essential to identify the activities that give meaning to your everyday life, be it work, hobbies, family, or relationships with loved ones. As one ages, their core values may evolve, and hence, it becomes especially vital to periodically re-evaluate them and ponder upon the current purpose and significance of one’s life.
Authenticity
Being authentic is rooted in the core values that one has set for themselves. It is also crucial to evaluate how closely aligned one’s actions are to these values and goals. Maintaining a journal can aid in this process – jotting down one’s thoughts on paper can help organize them and identify connections between ideas and experiences.
Self-awareness
Self-awareness pertains to the ability to comprehend one’s emotions, recognize personal needs, and desires. It is beneficial to pose questions to oneself, such as “What am I feeling right now?”, “What are my aspirations?”, “What triggers my anxiety and happiness?”
Communication with others
Interacting with others is crucial in combating feelings of isolation. This encompasses being a part of a community and fostering meaningful relationships. One should contemplate who holds importance in their life, whose presence brings them happiness – strive to meet with such individuals more often. Engaging in a hobby that involves communication with like-minded people can also facilitate the formation of new friendships.
Something bigger than ourselves
Discovering something greater than oneself can aid in overcoming a crisis. Finding a source of support in faith or philosophical teachings can be beneficial. It is advisable not to restrict one’s search to simple self-help books – exploring works by philosophers like Kierkegaard or ancient Stoics may be enlightening.
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