Anxious About Existence? Ways To Cope With Existential Anxiety
anxious about existence? ways to cope with existential anxiety
There are times in our lives when you question how things happen in your life and your place in the universe. These existential questions are simply a natural part of a life with many mysteries. It can lead to existential anxiety that arises from thinking about the meaning of life, purpose, and existence.
According to experts, many times, it can be a distressing emotional response that leads to feelings of insecurity, isolation, and loneliness. Many people also experience a sense of emptiness. However, by taking time to understand and address your feelings, you can find greater peace of mind.
- Anxiety
- Depression
- The feeling of being overwhelmed
- Isolation from friends and family
- No energy or motivation
- Loneliness
- Obsessive worry
- Feeling guilt or shame
- Restlessness
- Muscle tension
- Rapid heart rate
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Digestive issues
- Difficulty focusing
Doctors say that even though there is no time that existential anxiety lasts, like other forms of anxiety, it may end in a few minutes to months at a time.
- Career or job change
- Death of a loved one
- Diagnosis of a serious or life-threatening illness
- Entering a significant age category
- Marriage or divorce
Doctors say if you have certain health issues, you may be more prone to having existential anxiety, which includes:
- Borderline personality disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Ways to overcome and calm existential anxiety
Doctors say even though existential anxiety may be unavoidable, most people must find a way to live with the condition rather than eliminate it. Experts also feel that experiencing an existential crisis can also be positive; as it can force you to question your purpose in life and help provide direction.
A few helpful ways to respond to an existential crisis include:
Sharing your feelings
It is always important to share your feelings with close ones as it can help soothe existential worries and allow you to connect with others on a deeper level.
Mindfulness techniques
Try doing meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga to help keep your mental health calm, slow your heart rate, and soothe anxiety symptoms overall
Being positive
Experts say having a positive attitude in life helps perceiving it as meaningful. By valuing your own happiness, you may find that your life improves significantly as well as also feels more meaningful.
Journaling
Experts recommend pulling out a notebook and jotting down your thoughts on a lot of questions that circle your mind. It is in the answers to these questions that you will find how to cope with an existential crisis.