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There are moments when you may question the purpose behind everything in life. An existential crisis often brings about a deep discomfort regarding the meaning, choices, and freedom we have in life. This form of existential anxiety can lead to feelings of emptiness, making you wonder if life has any inherent purpose. It can also create confusion about your own identity and place in the world.
Existential questions often arise during periods of crisis or transition, prompting individuals to ponder the meaning and purpose of life. These questions can evoke feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and confusion. In a culturally diverse country like India, where traditional values often intersect with modern existential thoughts, addressing these questions becomes even more significant. Coping with existential questions involves introspection, resilience, and the right support system to navigate through the uncertainties of life.
Families, societal norms, and cultural expectations can deeply influence how individuals confront these existential dilemmas. In India, where collectivist values emphasize interconnectedness, finding personal meaning while aligning with familial and societal expectations can be challenging. This article delves into understanding existential crises, and their common manifestations, and provides practical steps to cope and find meaning in life.
Understanding Existential Crisis
Existential anxiety is the feeling of being deeply worried about big, life-shaping questions, like whether life has any real meaning or why we often feel alone even when people surround us (Bruggen et al, 2014). For example, someone might feel anxious after a job loss or a breakup, questioning the purpose of their career or relationships and struggling to find meaning.
An existential crisis is when an individual questions the very foundations of their life: their purpose, the meaning of existence, and their place in the universe. This crisis often arises from significant life events such as the loss of a loved one, major career changes, or personal achievements that do not bring expected satisfaction.
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The underlying themes of existential crises include fear of death, isolation, freedom, and meaninglessness (Ivers et. al, 2024). Individuals may feel overwhelmed by the realization of their mortality, the solitude of their existence, the burden of freedom in making choices, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. In India, where spirituality and philosophy are deeply rooted in culture, existential questions are often interwoven with spiritual beliefs and practices.
Common Types of Existential Crises
Crisis of Identity
An identity crisis happens when people question who they are and what their purpose in life is. Imagine a young adult who has always been known as a top student but, after graduating, suddenly feels lost because they don’t know what to do next. They might ask, "Who am I without my academic success?" Similarly, someone who has spent years raising children might feel unsure of their role once their kids move out, asking, "What is my purpose now?" These moments of doubt and questioning can surface at any life stage, often during significant changes like starting a new job, moving to a new city, or even retiring.
Crisis of Freedom
The crisis of freedom comes from the overwhelming realization that every choice we make is our responsibility, and we alone bear the consequences. For example, a person who has the opportunity to choose between multiple career paths might feel paralyzed by the fear of making the wrong decision. Instead of feeling liberated by the choices, they feel trapped by the weight of responsibility. Similarly, someone deciding whether to stay in a long-term relationship or leave might feel overwhelmed by the implications of their choice, worrying about regret or hurting others.
Crisis of Death
A crisis of death stems from the fear of mortality and the finite nature of life. For instance, someone who experiences a health scare or loses a loved one might start thinking about their mortality, leading to anxiety about how much time they have left and whether they are making the most of it. This can prompt a strong desire to leave a lasting legacy or make meaningful changes in life, such as shifting careers to something more fulfilling or spending more time with family.
Crisis of Meaning
The crisis of meaning arises when individuals question the purpose of their lives. Consider someone who has worked tirelessly to climb the corporate ladder, only to wake up one day feeling that their achievements lack significance. They might wonder, "Is this all there is to life?" Similarly, a person who has been through a series of failed relationships might question the value of love and companionship, feeling a deep sense of emptiness and despair. This crisis is about seeking a deeper sense of purpose beyond the surface-level accomplishments or routines.
Steps to Cope with Existential Crises
Acceptance of Uncertainty
Embracing the uncertainty of life is a crucial step. Understand that it is normal to have doubts and questions. Acceptance can reduce anxiety and open up pathways for growth and exploration.
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Finding Meaning of Life
Schippers and Ziegler (2019) introduced a method aimed at helping people discover purpose and meaning in life. This approach encourages individuals to think deeply about their core values and strengths before imagining their ideal future and working toward it.
The method includes seven simple steps:
- Identify Your Passion and Values: Reflect on what truly matters to you and what you are passionate about.
- Recognize Your Strengths and Habits: Take note of your skills and daily routines that define who you are.
- Consider Your Social Life: Think about your current and future relationships and social interactions.
- Envision Your Career Path: Picture what your future career could look like and where you want to go professionally.
- Compare Your Ideal and Less Ideal Futures: Visualize the best and less favourable versions of your future life.
- Set Goals and Make Plans: Establish clear goals and create "if-then" plans to achieve them.
- Commit to Your Goals Publicly: Share your goals with others to stay accountable and motivated.
This structured process helps individuals align their lives with their values and aspirations, guiding them toward a more meaningful existence.
Connect with Others
Sharing existential concerns with trusted friends, family, or support groups can alleviate feelings of isolation. In collectivist societies like India, community support plays a vital role in coping with existential dilemmas.
Taking Therapy
Therapy, especially existential therapy, helps individuals explore their thoughts and feelings about existence, meaning, and purpose. Therapists guide clients in navigating existential crises, such as feelings of isolation, freedom, and the search for meaning, by helping them find personal significance and cope with life's uncertainties. Online therapy offers accessible, flexible, and confidential support, making it easier for individuals to seek help without the stigma often associated with in-person therapy. In India, as mental health awareness grows, online platforms provide a convenient way to connect with qualified professionals. Rocket Health India offers tailored online therapy services that address existential concerns, with a team of experienced therapists providing culturally sensitive care. This support helps clients navigate their existential questions within the framework of Indian societal norms and values.
Conclusion
Coping with existential questions is a deeply personal journey that involves embracing uncertainty, seeking meaning through values, and connecting with others. In India, where cultural and spiritual dimensions play a significant role, integrating these elements into the coping process is crucial. Online therapy, like that offered by Rocket Health India, provides the support and guidance needed to navigate these profound questions and find a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
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Feeling lost in existential questions? You’re not alone. Rocket Health India’s expert therapists can help you navigate uncertainty, find meaning, and regain clarity. Start your journey toward a more fulfilling life—book a session today!
References
Ivers, N. N., Johnson, D. A., Casares, D. R., Lonn, M. R., Duffey, T., & Haberstroh, S. (2024). Understanding prolonged grief from an existential counseling perspective. Journal of Counseling & Development, 102(3), 370–381. https://doi.org/10.1002/jcad.12518
Schippers, M. C., & Ziegler, N. (2019). Life Crafting as a way to find purpose and meaning in life. Frontiers in Psychology, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02778
Van Bruggen, V., Vos, J., Westerhof, G., Bohlmeijer, E., & Glas, G. (2014). Systematic review of Existential anxiety instruments. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 55(2), 173–201. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022167814542048
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