2025.04.06

Fear of dying: The real reason for emotions and the first step to happiness

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Fear of death is said to be a common human emotion. It may be rooted in the fear of the unknown and the fear of losing something forever. However, there are many factors lurking behind this fear that make us think about our own understanding, values, relationships, and meaning of life. Unraveling them is not just a way to alleviate the fear of death, but it is also the first step to true happiness.

Why are we afraid of death, and how can we overcome that fear? And what are the tips for living a happy life that you will discover as you unravel the fear of death? In this article, we'll delve into our feelings about the finiteness of life and share ways of thinking about turning fear into hope.

Article Contents

The true nature of the feeling of "I'm scared to death"
The Significance of Facing the Fear of Death
"Acceptance of death" as the first step to happiness
Finding the meaning of life by facing death

The true nature of the feeling of "I'm scared to death"

How does the fear of death come about?

The reason why we feel "scared of dying" is strongly related to human instinct. Human beings as living organisms give the highest priority to survival, so they are instinctively wary of the unknown situation of death. This fear is a natural reaction for self-preservation, and it has also played an important role in avoiding foreign enemies and dangerous situations.

In addition, the unique human ability to think complicates this fear. As we have the ability to think about the future and learn from past experiences, we are more likely to feel vague anxiety by being aware of the irreversibility and incomprehensibility of death. As a result, when we understand that death is inevitable, fear is created as a strong emotional response.

What is thanatophobia? Explanation from a psychological point of view

"Thanatophobia" is a psychological term that refers to excessive fear of death. This concept has been studied in the field of psychiatry, and in some cases it can cause such a strong fear reaction that it interferes with daily life. People with thanatophobia are more likely to have fear of death itself, as well as the process of dying and losing loved ones.

Psychologist Sigmund Freud pointed out that the background of such fear is influenced by "unconsciously repressed emotions" and "unfinished business with life". In modern psychology, it is also believed that thanatophobia is partly formed by the influence of childhood experiences and social environment. On the other hand, counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy are effective ways to overcome fear.

How to perceive death as spiritual pain

Spiritual pain refers to the mental and spiritual distress you feel in the face of death. This pain often arises from anxiety about the "end of life" that death implies, or questions about the fundamental meaning of one's existence. Especially among people who do not have a view of life and death based on a specific faith, such as in Japan, it is said that spiritual pain is likely to become serious.

Spiritual care is attracting attention as a way to relieve spiritual pain. This is an approach to give peace of mind to a person who is approaching death. In the field of home-visit nursing and long-term care, support is effectively provided to respect the dignity of patients and reaffirm the meaning of life. Through this kind of care, it is possible to alleviate the fear of death itself and gain peace of mind.

Fear of Death and Instinctive Human Reactions

Fear of death can be said to be an instinctive human reaction. In particular, it has been scientifically clarified that if it becomes persistent and strong, it is the result of a part of the brain called "amygdala" that is reacting. This part is responsible for the processing of emotions and alerts us to what is judged to be unknown or dangerous. The fear of death may be caused by the overactivation of this alarm.

Fear is also reinforced by social learning. The reactions of those around you, cultural taboos about death, and even the influence of the media can shape your image of death in a more negative way. Understanding this context is the first step in finding a way to overcome the fear of death.

"Unpreparedness" and "anxiety" hidden in the background of fear

Behind the fear of death, there are often actually "unpreparedness" and "anxiety" hidden. For example, the fear that you may not be able to accomplish everything you want to do, or the anxiety of leaving your loved ones behind, can take concrete forms. In other cases, they imagine what the world will be like after they are gone, and they feel helpless.

In particular, the moment people realize the finiteness of life, they tend to think deeply about the passage of time and future events. This process can also amplify the fear of "dying" itself. However, if you can calmly sort out these feelings, it can also be an opportunity to reaffirm what is important to you. Here are some hints for living abundantly in the present despite the anxiety of death.

The Significance of Facing the Fear of Death

The importance of having a view of life and death

The first step in facing the fear of death is for individuals to have their own view of life and death. The view of life and death refers to the way of thinking and values about death and life. Having this can help you feel less lost and anxious in your life. Each person's view of life and death is shaped by their family environment, culture, religious background, etc., but it is important to think carefully about it for yourself and perceive death in a convincing way. For example, in order to overcome thanatophobia (fear of death), it can also help to imagine what will happen to you after death and find a sense of security in it.

Death as an opportunity to think about the meaning of life

Facing death gives us an opportunity to think more deeply about the meaning of life. The question, "What am I living for now?" may come to mind when we are conscious of the fear of death. This is an important moment to rediscover the purpose and value of life. For example, if "death" symbolizes finiteness, the challenge is how much fulfillment we can live in it. Being aware of the end of life can help you feel more important about the small joys of each day and the connection you have with others.

The wisdom of our ancestors to overcome fear

When we look for ways to overcome the fear of death, various wisdom has been passed down from ancient times to the present day. For example, the philosopher Epicurus said, "Death is the absence of the senses, and there is no need to fear it." In Japan Buddhism, the teaching of "one day at a time," which cherishes every moment, is widely known as a way of thinking that alleviates the fear of death. Also, from a spiritual point of view, the idea of soul permanence and reincarnation can give us peace of mind. The knowledge and wisdom of our predecessors will be of great help to us living in the present day.

Religion and philosophy talk about death and its role

Since ancient times, religion and philosophy have been powerful guides for dealing with the fear of death. Religions often present an afterlife, giving their followers a sense of security. For example, in Christianity, the concept of heaven symbolizes peace after death, and in Buddhism, the state of peace called the Pure Land is preached. On the other hand, in philosophy, there is also a way of thinking that "death" is just a natural phenomenon. In modern Japan, many people are not bound by a particular religion, but even so, referring to philosophical and religious teachings can help deepen our understanding of death and reduce anxiety.

Modern psychology unravels the "power to overcome death"

Modern psychology also offers many tips for overcoming the "fear of death". For example, in the field of psychology, the organization of emotions by discussing and accepting death is recommended. There are also ways to focus on the present moment and reduce anxiety about the past and future through mindfulness practice. In addition, certain psychotherapies may provide training for symptoms such as thanatophobia to confront and overcome death in a safe environment. This approach makes it possible to see death as a part of life rather than an enemy.

"Acceptance of death" as the first step to happiness

Concrete Ways to Accept Death

As a way to overcome the fear of death, it is important to first embrace it rather than hide it as a fear. From a spiritual perspective, it's important to see death as a part of nature and think about the values you've cherished in your life. For example, writing in a journal can help you reduce your excessive fear of death by reflecting on past joys and gratitude. It is also effective to clear your mind through professional counseling and conversations with people you trust. Death is inevitable, but how we accept it creates peace of mind.

Mindfulness and Mental Stability Practices

When dealing with the anxiety of death, mindfulness techniques that focus on the present self are very effective. A daily routine that incorporates meditation and deep breathing can help calm the agitation of the mind and help to achieve peace of mind. For example, you can focus on the present moment by simply sitting quietly and focusing on your breathing. This method of freeing yourself from extra worries and fears of the future is also noted as spiritual care. It is widely used in the medical field and is widely used as a practice method to reduce anxiety and increase happiness.

How to construct a view of life and death that leads to happiness

Building a "view of life and death" to lead a happy life is the key to a deep understanding of the meaning of life. Accepting "living" and "dying" as a continuous flow rather than a confrontation changes the way we look at death. For example, it is possible to develop a more serene view of life and death by reading philosophical books to explore one's values and listening to religious teachings. Gratitude in everyday life can also help alleviate the fear of death. Hiroyuki Ehara also says that "cherishing the present" is the key to happiness.

The Importance of Living in the Moment

When you feel the fear of death, it is important to focus on the value of living in the moment. By being aware of the finiteness of life, you will feel more endearing every day. If you make a habit of reflecting at the end of the day and asking, "What was the moment that made me happy today?" you will have more joy focusing on the present. Various religions and philosophies also attach importance to the teaching of living in the moment. Rather than dwelling on the past or anxiety about the future, focusing on the present moment is the best way to calm your mind.

The sense of relief that comes from connecting with others

Connecting with others is crucial in alleviating the fear of death. You can find empathy and support through interaction with close friends and family, or with communities that share your concerns. Just as a care worker listener provided emotional stability through dialogue with the elderly, connecting with someone can relieve feelings of loneliness and anxiety. Rather than "fearing death alone," sharing your feelings with someone will make it easier for you to find peace of mind. Warm interaction with others is also essential for the reduction of spiritual pain.

Finding the meaning of life by facing death

The value of life shining through the sight of death

When we face the theme of death head-on without avoiding it, we can feel the preciousness of being alive more clearly. As you think about how to overcome the fear of death, you will realize that every moment of your daily life is precious. For example, in one nursing field, a care worker who witnessed a patient facing his or her final moments learned that life itself is a gift and that it is important to continue living a daily life that is unique to him. In this way, being aware of death naturally leads to actions that brighten the life in front of you.

An opportunity to free yourself from fear of the future

Many people say that fear and anxiety about death originate from an "invisible future." However, having a perspective that accepts death as a natural event can free the mind from excessive anxiety about the future. For example, people who had a strong fear of death in childhood have been able to cultivate a heart of "gratitude for the present" through the messages of those around them, such as parents and grandparents. As Hiroyuki Ehara explains the importance of managing spiritual pain, inner stability is the first step to quelling fear and gaining a sense of security for the future.

Important Life Choices Taught by "Finiteness"

People strive to make better choices by thinking about how to spend their time in a limited amount of time. By being aware of "finiteness," you will develop the ability to choose meaningful actions instead of wasting time unnecessarily. One listener's worries about what to do for the rest of their lives turned into an opportunity to find what they really valued. It is precisely because there is an end point in death that people have a strong motivation to live seriously in the present.

Growth and learning from the experience of facing death

The experience of facing death can sometimes bring immeasurable growth and learning. For example, people who have taken care of a family member after a long period of nursing care often feel sadness and at the same time deeply feel the significance of "the value of life" and "connection with people." Death marks the end of life, but it also provides an important lesson in rethinking the meaning of life. Focusing on what you can learn, rather than just being afraid, is the key to the next stage.

How to enjoy the present more alive

The most important thing that can be seen by understanding "death" is the importance of "living in the present". For example, through the practice of mindfulness, you can gain peace of mind. This technique is said to have the effect of reducing anxiety by concentrating on the present moment, which helps to achieve a sense of well-being. You can also find tips on how to incorporate a spiritual perspective to enjoy your daily life more deeply. For example, appreciating the beauty of nature and warm interaction with others can gradually reduce the fear of death and strengthen the feeling of being alive.

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