Ikigai, a Japanese term meaning "a reason for being," refers to the intersection of what one loves, what one is good at, what the world needs, and what can be rewarded. Recent research underscores its profound impact on mental health. A study published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction found that a strong sense of ikigai is predictive of higher well-being and lower depression levels. Specifically, the study revealed that ikigai significantly and positively predicted 31% of the variance in well-being and significantly and negatively predicted 21% of the variance in depression. This suggests that individuals who identify a clear purpose in life experience greater happiness and are less likely to suffer from depressive symptoms. link.springer.com
Further supporting these findings, a study in the Journal of Medical Internet Research examined the relationship between ikigai and suicidal ideation among Japanese adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research indicated that individuals without a clear sense of ikigai had significantly higher odds of experiencing suicidal thoughts. This highlights the protective role of having a life purpose in maintaining mental health during challenging times. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
To incorporate ikigai into your daily life, start by reflecting on activities that bring you joy, align with your skills, contribute to society, and provide personal fulfillment. Consider setting aside time each day to engage in these activities, whether it's volunteering, pursuing a hobby, or learning a new skill. Tools like journaling apps can help track your experiences and progress. Additionally, mindfulness practices such as meditation can enhance self-awareness, aiding in the discovery and pursuit of your ikigai.