Feeling anxious and experiencing discomfort when contemplating the concept of your own existence is not uncommon. This existential anxiety is a common human experience and has been pondered by philosophers and thinkers throughout history. It's often associated with questions about the purpose of life, the nature of reality, and our place in the universe. Many people have grappled with these thoughts at some point in their lives.
It's essential to understand that you are not alone in experiencing these feelings. Existential questions can be profound and overwhelming, and it's entirely normal to feel detached or like everything around you is less "real" when contemplating such concepts.
Here are some suggestions to help you cope with existential anxiety:
Acceptance: Recognize that it's okay to feel this way. Acknowledge your feelings and thoughts without judgment. Remember that it's part of the human experience to question and seek meaning.
Engage with the thoughts: Instead of trying to push away these thoughts, try to engage with them in a constructive manner. Consider writing in a journal or talking with someone you trust about your thoughts and feelings.
Educate yourself: Read books or articles on existentialism or philosophical concepts. Understanding different perspectives might help you gain insights and find comfort in knowing others have grappled with similar ideas.
Mindfulness and grounding techniques: Practice mindfulness or grounding exercises to help you stay present and connected to the current moment. Activities like meditation, deep breathing, or focusing on your senses can be helpful.
Seek professional help: If your anxiety becomes overwhelming or starts to interfere with your daily life, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who can help you explore these feelings and provide guidance.
Engage in meaningful activities: Pursue activities that bring you joy and a sense of purpose. Engaging in hobbies, volunteering, or helping others can provide a sense of fulfillment and distract from anxious thoughts.
Limit exposure to distressing content: Be mindful of the content you consume, especially if it tends to exacerbate your feelings of anxiety. This may include certain books, movies, or discussions.
Remember that it's normal to have ups and downs in life, and it's okay to seek help when needed. If you find that your existential anxiety is causing significant distress, talking to a mental health professional can be highly beneficial. They can provide tailored support and strategies to help you navigate these feelings in a healthy way.