Existential terror: A sudden awareness of meaninglessness

Created By: Bard and Lauren

Existential terror is a sudden and overwhelming sense of dread that comes at the realization that life thus far seems, is perceived as, or feels meaningless. To experience existential terror is a trauma itself, and it can be triggered by a variety of events. Sometimes the death of a loved one, a serious illness, or a major life change might bring an onset of feeling like life is a profound disappointment. Some people experience existential terror while doing something relatively mundane, like cooking, working out, or watching TV with friends and family.

When we experience existential terror, we may feel like all of the time and effort that we have put into our lives has been for nothing. We may feel lost and hopeless, and we may wonder what the point of life is.

Existential terror can be a very difficult experience to cope with. It can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. It can also make it difficult to enjoy our lives and to find meaning in our relationships and work.

If you are experiencing existential terror, there are a few things that you can do to cope:

• Talk to someone you trust. Talking about your existential terror can help you to process your feelings and to gain a different perspective.
• Seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand your existential terror and to develop coping mechanisms.
• Find meaning in your life. What gives your life meaning? It could be your relationships, your work, your hobbies, or your spiritual beliefs. Finding meaning in your life can help you to cope with existential terror.

It is also important to remember that existential terror is a normal human experience. You are not alone. There is help available, and you can get through this.

Here are some additional thoughts on existential terror:

• Existential terror can be a catalyst for personal growth and change. When we are confronted with the meaninglessness of life, we are forced to question our values and priorities. This can lead us to make changes in our lives that bring us more meaning and purpose.
• Existential terror can also help us to develop compassion and empathy for others. When we realize that we are all facing the same existential challenges, we are more likely to be kind and compassionate to others.
• Existential terror can be a reminder to live in the present moment and to appreciate the simple things in life. When we are focused on the present moment, we are less likely to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets about the past.

If you are struggling with existential terror, I encourage you to reach out for help. There are therapists and other professionals who can help you to understand and cope with your existential terror. With time and effort, you can heal from existential terror and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Existential terror can be a very isolating experience. People who are experiencing existential terror may feel like no one else understands what they are going through. This is why it is so important to reach out for help. There are people who can understand and support you, even if they have not experienced existential terror themselves.

If you are struggling with existential terror, please know that you are not alone. There is help available, and you can get through this.