The existential crisis manifests itself as an intense feeling of unease. But how can we differentiate it from a simple temporary depression? Amélie Boukhobza, clinical psychologist, gives us the signs to recognize.
An existential crisis results in a feeling of general unease, a loss of meaning in one’s own life. Although physical symptoms are often associated with it – such as severe fatigue, lack of appetite or sleep problems – certain emotional signs should be noted. Explanations.
Mood disorders
“Irritability, sadness, anxiety… The existential crisis can lead to many mood changes, which can be difficult to manage“, warns Amélie Boukhobza.
Difficulty managing emotions
“This crisis often leads to an almost depressive state. Emotions are heightened, we feel overwhelmed. However, this crisis is not negative in itself: it restores something that is wrong. If we find ourselves in this state, it is because something is not in its right place.“, warns Amélie Boukhobza.
An obsessive quest for meaning
“This is one of the key signs of existential crisis. We ask ourselves the question of the meaning given to our life: what is the point of all this?“, explains the clinical psychologist.
A feeling of disconnect
“When things are not in their right place, when we feel out of step with others or in feelings of impasse… This may be the sign of an existential crisis“, reveals Amélie Boukhobza.
Loss of self-identity
“If it is not obligatory, it can sometimes arise during a crisis. We then ask ourselves the following questions: “Who am I?”, “What am I doing?“, confides the practitioner.
Good in his body, good in his head!
Dissatisfaction
Finally, it is perhaps the most obvious feeling, during a crisis.
“If we get to this point and wonder about the meaning we want to give to our life, it is because certain things do not give us satisfaction.“, reveals the expert, before concluding: “In the event of a crisis, we don’t panic and we take charge. We can start by taking a sheet of paper and listing what is working and what is no longer working. Then, we can decide to go for a consultation to quell the excess of questions. Sport and breathing can also help lower the body’s stress level..”
