LibraryScenariosWhen awareness of mortality strikes during happy moments
Scenario

When awareness of mortality strikes during happy moments

I had a panic attack at my daughter's graduation because I suddenly realized she is going to die someday and so am I and this whole thing is temporary.

Patan
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More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Joy can paradoxically trigger existential anxiety by highlighting the impermanence of what we most cherish.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Existential psychology — meaning death freedom?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.