Isn't it true that the modern world can sometimes be a complex and demanding place to live? Many young people struggle with mental health challenges such as stress, anxiety, and depression. We often ponder where these challenges stem from and how we can prevent them through various services. However, what if instead of a mental health crisis, we're facing a crisis of meaning among young people?
The experience of meaning and purpose is a fundamental human need that has always existed. We need to feel that our lives have purpose and direction, and that we are an important part of a community. Research shows that the experience of meaning is associated with greater resilience, optimism, hopefulness, self-esteem, and even better immune system function, while its absence is linked to depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and issues like substance abuse.
In the past, various communities, traditions, and religions provided frameworks for finding meaning and purpose, but in the modern world, many of these traditional sources of meaning have faded or lost their grip. The lack of meaning in life can lead to a feeling of emptiness and being lost. Such a so-called crisis of meaning, as researcher Christine Namdar calls it; The Crisis of Meaning, can manifest in various ways, such as feelings of depression, anxiety, and even physical symptoms like insomnia or lack of energy.
Studies show that the experience of meaning is associated with greater resilience, optimism, hopefulness, self-esteem, better immune system function, and even heart health. Youth is a time for living, exploring, experiencing, and learning. Young people have tremendous potential and a desire to make an impact if given the chance. What if behind the mental health crisis is actually a crisis of meaning, where they want to do something where their strengths, life story, skills, and dreams converge around a goal that is meaningful for themselves and beneficial for others?
The experience of meaning can serve as a powerful protection against mental health problems, especially among young people. When a young person feels they have purpose and meaning, they are better equipped to deal with various difficulties and setbacks. Meaning provides them with a foundation that helps them stay strong during tough times and find ways to cope.
Finding meaning helps young people understand their values, interests, and strengths. This increases their self-awareness and improves self-esteem. When a young person knows what is important to them, they can make better decisions and choices about their future. Young people who experience meaning in their lives are often more motivated to set and achieve goals. Meaning gives them a reason to act and strive towards their dreams, which can also help them feel satisfaction in their achievements.
Finding meaning can also strengthen young people's sense of belonging. They can join communities and groups that share similar values and goals. This creates opportunities to build deep and meaningful relationships that support their well-being. The experience of meaning can inspire young people to take responsibility for society and the world around them. They may find it easier to see how they can positively impact the people and environment around them.
At MARKED, we want to guide young people and young adults towards the experience of meaning and purpose by strengthening their self-awareness and active agency. We want to provide a pathway where every young person can find what is important to them and begin to see themselves as an important and meaningful part of society as a whole. Guiding young people towards the experience of meaning is an investment in the future that benefits both themselves and society as a whole.
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