Life Feels Empty and Exhausting? These Are the Symptoms of Existential Depression That Need to Be Wary of

Illustration of symptoms of existential depression that need to be aware of (Freepik)

YOGYAKARTA - Have you ever felt that life just goes on without a clear direction, even though on the outside everything looks fine? Feelings of emptiness, emotional fatigue, and questions about the meaning of life often become the entrance to the emergence of symptoms of existential depression. This condition is often not realized because it does not always appear as extreme sadness, but slowly gnaws at your life and mental well-being.

Existential depression itself is not an official medical diagnosis, but a term used to describe deep emotional struggles related to the meaning of life, purpose, and self-existence. This, recognize the common symptoms of existential depression experienced.

1. The feeling of emptiness that arises continuously

One of the most common symptoms of existential depression is an inexplicable sense of emptiness. You may not feel very sad, but you also don't really feel happy. Quoting Verywell Mind, Wednesday, December 31, this empty feeling settles and makes life feel flat, as if nothing really touches you emotionally.

Illustration of symptoms of existential depression that need to be aware of (Freepik)2. Loss of meaning and purpose in life

In this phase, you can start to question what you have been through all this time. Work, relationships, and daily routines no longer seem to have meaning. The search for the meaning of life that has not found an answer often triggers frustration and inner exhaustion.

3. Interest in daily activities is decreasing.

Symptoms of existential depression can also be seen from a decrease in interest in things you used to enjoy. Activities that usually give a sense of pleasure now feel bland or just an obligation. This is not because of lack of motivation, but because you feel that the activity has lost its relevance in life.

4. Deep thoughts about death and existence

You may often ponder about death, mortality, and the meaning of human existence. These thoughts are not always in the form of a desire to hurt yourself, but a reflection that is too intense to take mental energy and aggravate the mood.

Illustration of symptoms of existential depression that need to be aware of (Freepik/jcomp)5. Pulling away from social relationships and the surrounding environment

When life feels empty, interacting with others can be exhausting. You may feel emotionally disconnected or choose to distance yourself because you don't feel understood. This withdrawal can strengthen feelings of loneliness and deepen symptoms of existential depression.

6. Prolonged emotional and mental exhaustion

Constant inner struggles can trigger emotional and mental exhaustion, even without heavy physical activity. You may feel tired all the time, have trouble sleeping, or not feel refreshed even though you've had enough rest.

If these various symptoms begin to interfere with daily life and last a long time, seeking professional help is a wise move. Support from a psychologist or counselor can help you understand these feelings and gradually rediscover the meaning of life.

Experiencing symptoms of existential depression is not a sign of weakness. In fact, this condition is often experienced by individuals who are reflective and sensitive to the value of life. By recognizing the signs early on, you give yourself the opportunity to take care of your mental health and rebuild a more meaningful relationship with life.