Existential Depression

COUNSELLING FOR MEN: OVERCOMING EXISTENTIAL DEPRESSION

 

Depression Counselling for Men in Sydney

Understanding and Coping with Existential Depression in Men

Depression in men

Existential depression is a profound emotional state that arises from deeply questioning life’s meaning, purpose, and the human experience. It often affects men who are dealing with career challenges, personal losses, or overwhelming societal pressures to “have it all together.” At Christian Acuña’s Counselling Services for Men in Sydney, we specialise in supporting men through this complex emotional terrain, helping them rediscover purpose, clarity, and balance in life.

Whether you’re grappling with feelings of futility in your career, struggling after a relationship breakdown, or facing the weight of financial or personal expectations, we provide a safe, private, and compassionate environment to work through these challenges.


What is Existential Depression?

Existential depression often arises when life’s deeper questions—like the purpose of existence or the inevitability of mortality—become overwhelming. It can be triggered by events like job loss, separation, or major life transitions. While self-reflection is healthy, if these thoughts consume your daily life and affect your relationships, it may indicate that existential depression has taken hold.


Symptoms of Existential Depression

  • Overthinking Life’s Purpose: Constantly reflecting on life’s meaning, often at the expense of day-to-day activities.
  • Withdrawal from Social Interactions: Avoiding friends, family, or community due to overwhelming introspection.
  • Fatigue and Lack of Motivation: A sense of lethargy and inability to engage in previously enjoyable activities.
  • Anxiety and Unease: Persistent worry about the unknown or uncontrollable aspects of life.
  • Hopelessness: Feeling that life lacks purpose or that meaningful change is unattainable.

Christian’s Insight

“I understand the devastating effects depression can have—it makes the world feel scary and isolating. Under the lens of depression, it can feel impossible to overcome struggles, whether it’s a hard separation, a toxic relationship, or life just being too harsh. But here’s the truth: everything we face holds a lesson, even when it doesn’t feel that way.

As a counsellor, I walk this journey with you, helping you uncover those lessons and build the resilience to move forward. Together, we can build the skills to overcome these feelings. One day, you’ll look back with pride, understanding why this chapter happened, and how it shaped the stronger, more resilient person you’ve become.”


Treatment Approaches

Tackling existential depression requires a tailored, compassionate approach. At our Sydney-based clinic, Christian Acuña uses evidence-based therapies and practical techniques to help men regain a sense of control and fulfilment. Here’s how we can support you:

  1. Focus on Controllable Aspects: Shift attention from unanswerable questions to achievable goals, such as building healthier habits or improving relationships.
  2. Regular Exercise: Activities like weightlifting and cardio can release endorphins, balance hormones, and significantly improve mood.
  3. Reconnect with Nature: Spending time in natural surroundings has been shown to reduce stress and foster a sense of calm and perspective.
  4. Nourish Your Body: A healthy diet, including foods like cashews (a natural source of tryptophan, a mood-boosting amino acid), can improve overall mental health.
  5. Surround Yourself with Positive People: Connecting with supportive friends or groups can reinforce optimism and reduce feelings of isolation.
  6. Express Emotions Creatively: Techniques such as journaling or artistic pursuits provide outlets for processing difficult emotions.
  7. Professional Therapy: Approaches like existential psychotherapy or logotherapy help men explore life’s meaning while providing tools for resilience.

Watch: Overcoming Depression

For an engaging exploration of depression and its impact, watch this insightful video:


Take the First Step Today

Depression doesn’t have to define your life. At Christian Acuña’s Counselling Services for Men, we provide a supportive, confidential space to explore your feelings and rediscover purpose. Whether you’re facing existential depression, career stress, or relationship challenges, our evidence-based strategies are designed to help men thrive.

Take control of your mental health today. Call or SMS us on 0415 237 494, email us at info@counsellingformen.com.au, or visit our contact page to book your first session. Together, we can help you move toward a more fulfilling, meaningful life.