An existential crisis is a period of intense questioning and doubt about the meaning of life. It can be triggered by a major life event, such as the death or loss of a loved one, a divorce, a pandemic or a job loss. It can also be caused by a more gradual process of questioning one's beliefs, purpose and values. An existential crisis can leave a person feeling like they are drifting out to sea with no control over what direction they are heading in.

Many major philosophers such as Nietzsche, Heidegger, Cioran and Sartre have written in depth about the nature of an existential crisis. Albert Camus novel, “The Stranger,” is one of the more known fictional depictions of a man experiencing an existential crisis. An existential crisis is as common a theme in human history as war is. But yet many often deny their own existential crisis. Maybe because of social taboos or other reasons, they seem to struggle with confronting the crisis that is going on within them. As a result, an existential crisis can get acted out on others, which can be very damaging and hurtful. Sometimes it can even be deadly.

People in an existential crisis may feel lost, confused, alone, isolated, angry and anxious. They may question the meaning of their life, the purpose of their existence, and the nature of reality. They may also feel a sense of alienation from the world around them and a continual feeling of impending doom. This can then lead a person into a never ending downward spiral filled with self-destruction and despair.

There is no one right way to deal with an existential crisis. Some people find great comfort in being able to talk openly with a therapist or counselor. Feeling heard and seen in what they are going through can bring great relief to a person going through an existential crisis. Others find solace in music, literature, fashion, film, art, religion or spirituality. Still others find meaning in their work, their close relationships, and/or their creative pursuits. 

With an existential crisis it is important to think in terms of mitigation rather than eradication. Often an existential crisis will abate on its own and all a person can do is try and mitigate the symptoms as they are going through it. The important thing is to find what works for you and to be patient. This is going to take time- there is no quick fix. Existential crisis are difficult, painful and challenging, but they can also be a time of finding out who you really are.

Even though it is incredibly difficult, it is important to try and remember that you are not alone. Many people in our world today are experiencing an existential crisis as I write this. There is no shame in feeling lost, alone or confused. The important thing is to keep seeking answers and to find what gives your life meaning. What kind of life do you want to be living? This is a fundamental question for those going through an existential crisis.

If you are struggling to cope with an existential crisis, please reach out for help. It is a painful experience to go through alone. There are many resources available to support you, including therapists, counselors, and support groups. There are also a lot of videos on Youtube about existential crisis. And if you are able to muster the focus needed to read a short novel, I highly recommend reading “The Stranger,” by Albert Camus. It helps me every time I feel the existential ennui coming on.