Do you sometimes wonder, "Who am I?", "What am I doing in this life?", "What is the meaning of my life?" Or do you feel like everything in life is happening outside of your control? You are not alone with these questions. Today we are talking about a form of psychotherapy that can help you think deeply about these things, take responsibility for your life, and live a meaningful life.
What exactly is Existential Therapy?
Simply put, this is also a form of psychotherapy. But it's not like some of the treatments we've heard about. For example, in methods like ``(Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)``, the focus is often on how your past experiences affect your current behavior. But in this method called Existential Therapy, you think in a different way.
The main focus here is on how your personal choices and your responsibilities shape your life.
Imagine your life as a vehicle. This therapy teaches you to be a driver, not a passenger, just cruising down the road. Instead, you get into the driver's seat , take the steering wheel, and drive the vehicle to where you want to go. That is, rather than looking for reasons for the things that happen in your life, it talks about how you contributed to those things, what you can learn from them, and how you can shape your future the way you want. This is a therapy based on philosophical concepts that talks deeply about the challenges of human existence.
Who is this treatment most suitable for?
This treatment can be beneficial for anyone who really wants to learn more about themselves and the world they live in. It's especially worth talking to your doctor about this if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
- Substance use disorder
- Anxiety and fear
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- The stress of living with a long-term physical illness or other mental health condition
- For those who deal with the stress that comes with a big change in life (getting sick, losing a job, losing someone).
This therapy helps you understand how the decisions you make affect your outcomes, allowing you to make truly important, meaningful decisions.
The four basic pillars of this treatment
This method, called Existential Therapy, is based on four fundamental truths that we all face in human existence. These are called the 'Four Pillars.' The therapist helps you face these four pillars without fear.
| Pillar | Let's understand simply. |
|---|---|
| 1. Death | Death is a part of life. When we accept it without fear as inevitable, we can live our lives more meaningfully and to the fullest. |
| 2. Isolation | Ultimately, we are all alone in our lives. Only we can control our own future. When we understand this truth, we become less dependent on others and more confident in our own strength. |
| 3. Meaning | Finding what gives your life purpose and meaning. Identifying what makes you truly happy and fulfilled. |
| 4. Responsibility / Freedom | You have the freedom to make decisions in your life. But you must also take responsibility for each of those decisions. Your choices determine the path of your life. |
In this treatment, the therapist tries to reduce the fear and anxiety you feel when looking at these four pillars and help you accept that these are normal parts of human life.
How does this treatment work?
This is a talking therapy, like other psychotherapy. The therapist creates a `` safe space`` where you can freely share whatever is on your mind, without any judgment.
Typically, there is one session once a week, for about an hour. First, your therapist will ask you what you hope to achieve from the treatment. Then, they will guide the conversation in a way that will help you reach your goals.
Imagine you have a problem at work. Rather than asking you about everything from your past, the therapist helps you take control by asking questions like, "Okay, what can you do to change this situation now? What kind of things do you really like?" Sometimes they can also talk about past experiences to help you understand how you got to where you are today.
What are the benefits and limitations of this?
As with any treatment, there are both benefits and limitations, and it's important to be aware of them.
| Benefits | Significant limitations |
|---|---|
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Important tips and things to pay attention to
Starting therapy can be overwhelming at times. It's normal to feel uncomfortable and insecure when sharing your feelings with someone new. It takes time. So go into therapy with an open mind . Remember that your therapist is there to help you.
If you feel uncomfortable at any point, or if you feel like you're not making any progress with your treatment, don't be shy about talking to your therapist directly . Then you can find a solution that works for you.
When should you seek medical advice?
If your symptoms, such as anxiety or fear, get worse during treatment, let your therapist or doctor know immediately.
Very important: If you have suicidal thoughts during treatment or at any other time, please do not suffer alone. See your doctor immediately, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of your nearest hospital, or call a confidential counselling service like Sumithrayo . There is always someone to help you.
Take-Home Message
- Existential Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps you find meaning in your life and take control of it.
- This is based on the four basic pillars of death, loneliness, meaning, and responsibility.
- This is a talk-based therapy that focuses on your choices and personal responsibility.
- It's normal to feel uncomfortable when you start treatment. This is a process. It's important to talk openly with your therapist.
- If your mental state worsens or you have thoughts of suicide, seek medical advice immediately .
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