Navigating Darkness: The Search for Meaning in Times of Crisis
During periods of uncertainty, doubt, and suffering, I am drawn to the words and ideas of Viktor Frankl, an Austrian neurologist, psychologist, and Holocaust survivor. He authored several pieces of literature, with two of my favorites being Man’s Search for Meaning and The Will to Meaning, where he explores themes of suffering, despair, and pain in relation to an individual’s inner transformation and search for meaning. Frankl's profound and captivating quotes speak directly to the experience of suffering, such as, "Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way," and, "What is to give light must endure burning." When inevitable challenges and turmoil present themselves—and they will continually throughout one’s life—I find strength in reflecting on his words during periods of darkness.
Viktor Frankl is the father of logotherapy, a form of existential psychotherapy based on the idea that the primary drive in human beings is the search for meaning in life, particularly in suffering. Rather than being a standalone therapeutic modality, logotherapy serves as a framework that clinicians can incorporate into their practice to help those experiencing suffering and darkness find meaning. I personally integrate logotherapy into my practice as it aligns with the framework of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), facilitating deeper, more existential conversations that often arise in the therapeutic space.
As I navigate this period of political transition, I am contemplative about the privilege of bearing witness to the struggles many individuals express in psychotherapy. Many are facing job loss and economic instability, political changes that clash with their values and morals, identities being suppressed and erased, and feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Unfortunately, therapy cannot cure the human condition or the inherent obstacles of existence. However, I accompany my clients in their journey, reflecting on their experiences. It is difficult at times to share the therapeutic space, especially when I resonate with their struggles. Clinical composure can feel tenuous as I, too, feel the urge to join in their lament.
During periods of instability and loss of safety and control, it is crucial to recognize that feelings of isolation can exacerbate despair. A core component of trauma is the overwhelming loss of safety and trust, which impacts our connections with others and institutions—sometimes even leading to PTSD symptoms. I have found group work to be transformative for those struggling with trust and safety, helping to promote recovery, progress, and reconnection with the community. In challenging times, resisting the urge to isolate and instead reaching out to trusted, supportive individuals can rekindle hope and bolster resolve.
In therapy, there are certain environmental factors beyond our control, and it is important to acknowledge these circumstances while guiding individuals to focus their efforts where they have agency. I recommend keeping a daily journal to process and reflect on thoughts and feelings, along with identifying one or two issues that spark passion. Connecting with others who share your values and beliefs provides essential support, helping you feel unified and resilient. As Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice."
Though suffering is an inherent part of the human experience, it can also be a catalyst for profound transformation. By seeking meaning in our struggles, fostering connections, and taking small, purposeful steps, we can navigate even the darkest times with strength and resilience.
