Facing challenges in life and raising questions about an individual’s purpose does not always result in improvements or positive changes. Individuals question their beliefs, goals, and purpose when an existential crisis occurs. If the crisis is not handled appropriately, an individual becomes depressed or anxious or triggers other mental health concerns. Depression increases the risk of substance abuse by two to three times compared to the general population.
Teens are at an intersection between adulthood and childhood, which may cause existential thoughts. If a teen you love has experienced an existential crisis, they may need teen depression treatment. Contact 877.466.0620 today to learn about our programs.
What Is an Existential Crisis?
An existential crisis occurs when an individual questions their life, death, and reason for living. Worrying about their life purpose makes the individual sad or depressed, or anxious. Additionally, existential crises can lead to a change in behavior and drastic decisions that may not benefit the individual.
An existential crisis can often be the result of a traumatic experience or event. It can also be caused by recent life changes, such as moving to a new city, graduating from school, or the death of a loved one. Teens are at a very tumultuous time in their life where there are multiple important changes happening.
If you are concerned about the mental health of someone you love who is facing an existential crisis, there are options available for existential depression treatment. Scientific studies have found existential therapies effective in treating depression, even more so than cognitive-behavioral therapies.
Signs of a Teen Existential Crisis
The transition to adulthood is a crucial time in life, and teenagers may be more susceptible to existential crises due to the number of changes they are going through. The feeling of losing control over their own lives can lead to existential distress. This can lead to risky behavior and mental health issues like depression.
Some signs a teen may be going through an existential crisis include:
- Questioning their identity
- Feeling lost or confused
- Questioning the meaning of life
- Worrying about death
- Feeling like they are not good enough
- Feeling like they do not fit in
- Struggling with making decisions
If you know a teen facing existential distress, it is crucial to seek existential depression treatment. At Destinations for Teens, we understand the unique needs of teenagers and are here to provide support throughout the process. Contact us today to learn more about our programs.
Risks of Teenage Existential Crisis
An existential crisis is a normal part of life, but when it becomes prolonged and involves heavy existential thoughts, depression may be at the root. When existential depression goes untreated, it can lead to higher rates of substance abuse. To numb out unknowns, lack of control, and a lack of understanding about one’s purpose in life, teens can turn to substance use to cope.
Other risks include:
- Social isolation
- Decreased academic performance
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Eating disorders
- Low self-esteem
- Risky behavior such as reckless driving or unprotected sexual interactions
If you have concerns about existential distress and depression in a teen, there are existential depression treatment options available for teens.
Treatment for Teenage Existential Crisis
Teen depression and existential crises can be treated through various modalities. These include existential therapies, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and individual psychotherapy. Existential distress is typically addressed through existential therapies such as existential analysis. Existential therapies focus on the individual’s thoughts and feelings to help them find a sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Other possible therapies include:
- Group therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
- Family counseling
- Psychoeducation
- Medication management
At Destinations for Teens, we understand the unique needs of teenagers. Our experienced clinicians provide existential depression treatment tailored to each individual’s needs. Contact us today to learn more about our programs.
Benefits of Treatment for Teens with Existential Crisis
Existential therapies have been found to be more effective for treating depression than cognitive-behavioral therapy. Treatment can help teens learn new coping skills, develop healthy habits, and establish a sense of purpose in life. Teens can also learn how to better manage their thoughts and feelings about the future. Additionally, successful treatment can help them build relationships and feel more confident in their ability to manage life.
If you have concerns about an existential crisis or depression in a teen, reach out today for personalized help. Our experienced clinicians are here to support teenagers facing existential distress and provide them with the tools they need to move forward confidently.
Existential Crisis Treatment with Destinations for Teens
We are here for you through your existential crisis and want to help you find purpose, meaning, and joy in life. Reach out now so we can help you start the road to recovery.
Contact 877.466.0620 to learn more about existential depression treatment for teens. Our team of compassionate professionals will work with you to develop the right plan of care to help you face existential challenges and discover solutions. Let us join you on your journey toward healing and inner peace. We are here for you every step of the way.