As a psychiatrist, I'm often asked why existential psychology piques my curiosity. Sure, it's easy to toss out fancy jargon about philosophy and meaning, but let’s be real—I got into existential psychology mostly because it just makes sense. Seriously. If you've ever pondered life's big questions while staring blankly at your coffee cup in the morning, you're basically doing existential psychology. Congratulations, you’re already halfway there!

1. It Follows Common Sense (Yes, Psychology Can Do That!)

In psychiatry, we sometimes overcomplicate things (shocking, I know!). Existential psychology stands out because it gets right to the core of human experience without wrapping it in overly complex terms. It asks straightforward, practical questions: Why are we here? What truly matters? What happens when our Netflix subscription ends?

Common sense says if you’re feeling stuck or anxious, maybe it's because you’re living a life someone else chose for you. Existential psychology would nod knowingly and whisper, “Hey, maybe choose something that actually resonates with who you are?” Genius!

2. It's Deeply Connected to Our Evolutionary Needs

Existential psychology isn't just abstract theory—it aligns beautifully with evolutionary biology. For example, our existential fear of death can be explained as an evolutionary mechanism: we're wired to avoid death because, quite frankly, it's hard to pass on your genes if you’re not around anymore (evolution, folks!).

Another great example is our existential relationship with freedom. Humans evolved in environments where freedom meant the ability to explore, innovate, and make choices essential for survival. That deep-seated desire for freedom—the anxiety we feel when it’s restricted—has a strong evolutionary purpose. It motivates us to seek autonomy, creativity, and the chance to thrive. So next time you feel annoyed about your lack of freedom at work, remember, it's just evolution saying, "Hey, maybe go start that organic avocado farm after all!"

3. It’s Simple Enough for Everyone to Understand

Unlike many psychological approaches, existential psychology doesn’t require a PhD to comprehend (though as someone who has one, I admit I wish it did sometimes—it’d justify those long years of study!). Its fundamental principles are accessible: life is finite, we have choices, and we must create our own meaning. No complicated graphs, no endless diagnostic checklists—just you and your existential angst having a cozy chat over tea.

4. You Can Spot It at Every Major Milestone

One of my favorite things about existential psychology is that it shows up everywhere, especially at life's major milestones. Consider these scenarios:

• Graduating from school: Existential psychology pops up with, "What now? Have I truly chosen a meaningful path, or did I just get this degree because my mom thought it'd look nice on the wall?"
  

• Getting married (or divorced): It asks, "Am I authentically living my values, or am I just following societal expectations?"
  

• Midlife Crisis: Existential psychology practically shouts, "Time to buy a convertible, start doing yoga, or finally write that book you keep talking about!"
  

• Retirement: "So… what now? Is painting enough to satisfy my soul, or do I secretly want to backpack across Europe?"
  

It’s funny and deeply relatable how existential psychology faithfully turns up whenever life reshuffles your deck.

Final Thoughts (Or Existential Ramblings)

Ultimately, existential psychology appeals to me as a psychiatrist because it directly addresses what it means to be human—our fears, choices, and endless search for meaning. It's rooted in common sense, linked to our evolutionary needs, remarkably simple to grasp, and shows up consistently at every significant milestone we hit.

Plus, let's face it—without existential psychology, who else would remind us that life's too short to live someone else’s idea of happiness? Well, probably my patients, but you get the point.

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This article is meant to provide general information and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor to discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of any treatment.