Self Loss

The concept of "self loss" often refers to a deep and often painful disconnection from one's sense of identity and purpose. Dr. Sara Kuburic, an existential psychotherapist, offers significant insights into this phenomenon:

1. Existential Threat: Self loss is described as a painful human experience, lacking proper vocabulary and often dismissed, though it can have serious consequences, resembling an existential void where direction and meaning are lost 1.

2. Grieving Self Loss: The process of losing oneself can feel akin to a form of death, involving grief and mourning. Individuals often feel they contributed to their self loss through passive decisions, amplifying the pain with regret and self-doubt 2.

3. Defining Self Loss: Self loss can be seen as self estrangement or a lack of congruence and alignment. It can manifest as feeling like a stranger in one’s own life, questioning fundamental aspects of one’s identity and life choices 3.

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     1

     Existential Terror

     00:30:53
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     2

     Grieving Self Loss

     00:44:48
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     3

     Finding Authentic Self

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     4

     Self Loss Manifestations

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     5

     Rediscovering True Self

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4. Consequences: The loss of self impacts various life aspects, from not knowing one’s feelings to struggling in relationships and self-image. It may manifest through constant uncertainty, making meaningful connections difficult 4.

5. Rediscovery and Healing: The journey back to oneself involves recognizing that the self is not static but malleable and fluid. Engaging in curiosity and small experiments can help one reconnect with their true self, separate from societal expectations 5.

6. Existential and Philosophical Context: Eastern philosophies sometimes view self loss as liberating, offering blissful freedom from a rigid sense of identity, contrasting with the more commonly experienced terror 1.