Existential concerns are questions and issues related to the meaning and purpose of life. They are fundamental questions that every human being grapples with at some point in their lives.
Signs
Most people wonder about meaning, death or who they are at some point. It may be time to reach out when these questions keep you up at night or make daily life feel empty.
How counselling helps
Early on
Together, you look at the questions on your mind, like meaning, death or who you are, and notice what stirred them up. There is no rush and no right answer.
As you go
Your counsellor can share tools from approaches like ACT and mindfulness to help you stay steady when big questions bring worry or dread.
Over time
You explore your values and take small steps toward a life that feels more like yours, with people and activities that feel meaningful to you.
Approaches
Where
About
Existential concerns are questions and issues related to the meaning and purpose of life. They are fundamental questions that every human being grapples with at some point in their lives. In this blog post, we will explore the nature of existential concerns, how they manifest in our lives, and some strategies for coping with them.
Existential concerns are broad philosophical questions about the meaning and purpose of life. They can include questions such as:
Existential concerns are universal and affect people from all walks of life. They can be triggered by major life events such as a significant loss or a traumatic experience, but they can also arise spontaneously without any apparent trigger.
Existential concerns often overlap with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, identity concerns, and personal development struggles. When questions about meaning, purpose, mortality, or self-identity become overwhelming, professional counselling can provide a supportive space to explore these thoughts without judgment.
At No Fear Counselling, our therapists use evidence-based approaches such as Existential Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Person-Centred Counselling to help individuals develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and a stronger sense of purpose. Through therapy, clients can explore their values, build meaningful connections, and create a life that aligns with what matters most to them.
Existential concerns can manifest in a variety of ways. Some common signs and symptoms of existential concerns include:
Existential concerns can be particularly challenging to deal with because they often relate to questions that do not have clear or definitive answers. This can lead to feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and even despair.
While existential concerns may never be fully resolved, there are strategies that can help individuals cope with these issues and find meaning and purpose in life. Here are a few examples:
Existential concerns are a natural and universal part of the human experience. While they can be challenging to deal with, there are strategies that can help individuals cope with these issues and find meaning and purpose in life. If you are struggling with existential concerns, consider seeking the support of a licensed therapist or counsellor to explore these issues and develop strategies for coping. Remember, you are not alone in your search for meaning and purpose.
Our team provides therapy and emotional support to help you heal at your own pace.
We offer counselling services across Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Surrey, and Chilliwack. Contact No Fear Counselling today to book your session and take the first step toward recovery and well-being.
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FAQs
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You might consider counselling when questions about meaning, death or purpose start to weigh on your days. You may notice trouble sleeping, pulling away from people, or feeling empty most of the time. You do not need a clear reason or the right words to start. If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8, call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433), or call 911 if you are in danger.
Counselling will not hand you one answer, because these questions are personal. Your counsellor helps you explore what meaning looks like for you, based on your own values and experiences. Approaches such as existential therapy and person-centred therapy give you space to think out loud without being judged.
No, you do not need a diagnosis or a crisis to start. Many people come in because something feels off, such as a quiet sense that life lacks direction or purpose. You can share as much or as little as you like, and you decide what to talk about.
Yes, questions about meaning can sometimes sit alongside anxiety, low mood, grief or a big life change. Your counsellor can help you sort out what is going on, without putting a label on you. Tools from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) can help with looping thoughts and worry.
Yes, you can meet online from anywhere in BC, or in person at one of our BC offices. We offer a free 15-minute consultation by phone or video, so you can ask questions first. Our intake team suggests counsellors who fit what you need, your language, your budget and where you want to meet.