Existential depression isn’t your typical feeling down. It’s not a clinically recognized diagnosis, but that doesn’t mean what you’re experiencing isn’t valid. It’s when you start questioning the meaning of life, your place in the universe and whether anything you do really matters. These are big questions that philosophers have pondered for centuries, and it’s natural to grapple with them, especially during a time of personal growth and exploration like in college. College is full of classes, exams, figuring out your future and maybe even living away from home for the first time. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by everything. The good news is that you don’t have to face these challenges alone. There are ways you can cope with existential depression, including working with a therapist. 

Why can college trigger existential depression?

College for traditional students is a time when you’re transitioning from being a teenager to becoming an adult. Suddenly, you have more freedom and responsibility, and you’re expected to make big decisions about your future. This can be exciting, but it can also be scary. Here are some reasons why college can trigger existential depression in college students:

• Facing the unknown — In high school, your path may have felt pretty clear. Now you have a world of possibilities open to you, and it can be overwhelming to choose a direction. 
• Feeling pressured to succeed — College can feel like a pressure cooker. Everyone seems to have their life figured out, and you may feel like you need to live up to everyone else’s expectations. It may surprise you that many of your peers are feeling just as confused as you! 
• Losing your identity — Leaving your hometown and social circle behind can feel like you’re losing a part of yourself. You’re trying to figure out who you are in a new environment.
• Answering the big questions — Maybe you’ve never really stopped to think about the meaning of life before. College can be a time for deep reflection, and sometimes those reflections can lead to unsettling questions and answers. 

Signs you may be struggling with existential depression

Here are some signs you may be experiencing existential depression:

• Feeling a constant sense of emptiness or purposelessness
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Having difficulty making decisions or feeling indecisive
• Withdrawing from social activities or feeling isolated
• Feeling hopeless or like the future is bleak
• Overwhelming nihilism
• Obsessive thoughts about existential themes 
• Having thoughts of self-harm or taking your life
• If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, it’s essential that you reach out for help immediately. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or visit https://988lifeline.org/.

It’s OK not to be OK. The first thing to remember is that you’re not alone. Existential depression is surprisingly common in college students. It’s a sign that you’re deeply thinking and that you care about your place in the world.

Finding your way through existential depression in college

There are ways you can cope with the struggles and challenges of existential depression, including:

• Talk it out — Bottling things up will only make you feel worse. Talk to a trusted friend, family member or counselor. Sharing your worries with someone who cares can help lift a huge weight off your shoulders. 
• Embrace the journey — College is a time of exploration and figuring things out. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to have all the answers right now. Enjoy the process of learning and growing. Don’t panic if the major you had your heart set on isn’t the right fit. You can discuss options with your academic adviser and even change your major. If you’re undecided, don’t feel like you’re a failure for not knowing what you want to do yet. A lot of people don’t even work in the field their degree is in!
• Find meaning in small things — Sometimes the biggest questions don’t have easy answers. Focus on finding meaning in the small things in life, like spending time with loved ones, helping others or pursuing hobbies you love. You don’t have to have all the answers at one time. Gaining knowledge is a lifelong journey!
• Seek professional help — If you’re struggling to cope on your own, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Working with a therapist can help you learn tools and strategies you need to better manage your anxiety and depression. 

College can be a challenging time, but it can also be a time of incredible growth and discovery. If you’re struggling with existential depression, know that you’re not alone. There are people who want to help you navigate these big questions and find your way through to mental well-being. Remember, you are strong, capable and worthy of happiness. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. 

Lightfully U can help you reclaim your joy and navigate college challenges

At Lightfully U, we understand the unique challenges faced by college students, including existential depression. We offer a variety of levels of care, like our Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program, to help you address your specific needs even away from home. Our personalized therapy treatment plans are built using our unique clinical model that uses a framework of evidence-based techniques, providing you with whole-person-centered care by our deeply compassionate experts. Our therapists are here to help guide you toward a brighter future. We can help you reclaim your mental well-being. 

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, contact us. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.