You’ve probably found yourself lying awake in the middle of the night, thoughts spinning around questions so big and complex that they seem nearly unanswerable. Questions like, “What’s the purpose of my life?” or “What happens after we die?” suddenly come crashing in, and before you know it, existential anxiety kicks in. Existential anxiety is a kind of unease that doesn’t just stick to everyday fears or daily concerns; it hits at the core of our being. In this blog, we’re going to dive deeper into the world of existential anxiety – what it is, why it affects us, and, more importantly, how to deal with it.
What’s Existential Anxiety?
It isn’t just some modern term; it’s a concept deeply rooted in the history of philosophy. Great thinkers like Søren Kierkegaard and Jean-Paul Sartre have extensively explored this phenomenon. It’s a state of panic or restlessness about life’s profound questions. Those with existential anxiety often ponder life’s finiteness, their identity, meaning, decision-making, and a lack of connection with others.
Questions like “Why are we here?” “What’s the meaning of life?” and “What’s my purpose?” are natural and valid, but they can be scary when there seems to be no clear answer. You’re certainly not alone in feeling this way!
Symptoms of Existential Anxiety
Existential anxiety goes beyond just mental symptoms. You might experience physical discomfort like heart palpitations, a knot in your stomach, or even mild nausea. You feel an intense sense of loneliness and confront the mortality and finiteness of your existence. It seems as if life lacks a predefined, supernatural meaning or purpose.
Everyone Philosophizes
From scholars to kids, throughout the ages, countless books, religions, and scientific movements have emerged in response to existential questions. They inspire art, music, and literature and are a significant part of our society.
Dealing with Existential Anxiety
Existential questions are necessary. They help you find your own purpose and set your own goals. However, sometimes not having answers to these questions can be very frightening. It’s normal to grapple with these questions, and it’s okay to seek help.
Existential anxiety can sometimes be triggered by a major life event or change. Some thoughts can then feel quite burdensome. When dealing with existential anxiety, it’s important to engage in activities that ground you in the present moment, help you accept uncertainty, and clarify your goals.
Example activities:
- Spend time in nature.
- Talk to friends and family.
- Meditate and practice grounding techniques.
- Keep a journal about your personal goals.
- Explore different cultures, religions, philosophers, and scientists.
Conclusion
Dealing with existential anxiety isn’t easy, but it can be comforting to know you’re not alone. Sometimes, there are no ready-made answers, and that’s okay.
Perhaps the best way to find meaning in life is by creating your own meaning, by doing things that bring you peace and increase your sense of connection with the world around you.
Take a break when you’re overwhelmed trying to make sense of it all. Bring yourself back to the present moment.
If you ever become so overwhelmed that it hinders your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
This blog was written by Thubble and is part of a blog series about “thubbling.” A new verb meaning: checking in and doing what’s important to you. If you want to read more similar blogs, check out the Thubble.Community.
