Existential depression arises from questioning the purpose of life and the realization of mortality. Marriage, death, and breakups can trigger it. Gifted individuals are more prone to it. Therapy involves focusing on other goals or touch therapy.
Existential depression occurs when a person questions the purpose of their life. It usually comes from having an existential crisis, in which he develops a new appreciation of mortality. Marriage, death, and breakups are common causes of existential depression. Both children and adults are capable of developing existential depression, but the problem is more likely to occur in particularly intelligent individuals. Therapy usually involves directing the patient’s attention to another worthy goal, such as his friends, family, or other hobbies.
This type of depression is brought on by the realization that a person supposedly has little meaning in general. A person may realize that they will not live long, nor will the world be significantly affected in the long run by their presence and disappearance. Someone suffering from existential depression may also marvel at how fragile life is and how easily and suddenly death comes.
Almost any experience, pleasant or painful, can cause this type of depression. A person may begin to wonder if her life had any meaning before a pleasant experience, such as marriage or having children. On the other hand, someone having a negative experience, such as a breakup or the death of a loved one, may wonder if their life still has meaning. Also, sometimes reaching a certain age that a person considers significant could trigger a crisis due to failed achievements and the prospect of being closer to death.
Existential depression is often seen in gifted children and adults of higher intelligence in general. Children who are considered gifted are considered to be more likely to experience existential depression. Their above-average intelligence allows them to see the world in ways that their peers don’t. One way to address this is touch therapy, in which a parent is asked to hug or high-five the child more often to break the sense of isolation.
There is no “best” approach to managing existential depression. Many methods involve distracting a patient with other important things, such as family. Some people find relief in focusing on their physical appearance, wealth, or religion. Occasionally, therapy is unnecessary; for example, it’s common for a teenager to go through an existential crisis, but they usually quickly find meaning in friends, school, or hobbies. However, it is safer to contact a mental health professional to evaluate the situation.
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