Tähendamissõltuvus

Tähendamissõltuvus, also known as "meaning addiction" in English, refers to an excessive and often unhealthy preoccupation with finding profound meaning or purpose in every aspect of life. Individuals experiencing tähendamissõltuvus may feel a constant, urgent need to interpret events, relationships, or even mundane activities as having a deeper, symbolic significance. This can lead to a state of perpetual seeking, where contentment or satisfaction is difficult to achieve without uncovering a hidden layer of meaning.

The drive for meaning can stem from various sources, including a desire for order in a chaotic world, a search for personal identity, or an attempt to alleviate existential anxiety. While a healthy search for meaning is a natural and often beneficial human drive, tähendamissõltuvus suggests an imbalance. This can manifest as overthinking, obsessive rumination, and a struggle to accept things at face value. The constant pressure to find "the meaning" can be exhausting and may prevent individuals from fully experiencing and appreciating life as it unfolds. It can also lead to dissatisfaction if a perceived meaning is not found or if the meaning discovered does not meet the individual's expectations. In some cases, this can impact relationships and daily functioning as the individual prioritizes their search for meaning above other important aspects of life.