Creating Meaning, Purpose and Well Being

A growing body of research shows that cultivating a sense of meaning and purpose in life can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress — and improve overall well-being.

A 2023 meta-analysis of nearly 66,500 people found that individuals with a strong sense of purpose reported markedly lower levels of depression and anxiety (Disabato et al., Psychological Bulletin, 2023). Another large study spanning 16 international samples linked higher purpose in life with lower perceived stress, independent of age, gender, or education (Burrow et al., Journal of Personality, 2024).

Meaning and purpose appear to buffer stress by promoting goal-directed behavior and positive coping strategies, reducing avoidance and rumination. They also support better sleep quality and overall health behaviors (Kim et al., Sleep Science and Practice, 2017) and even protect cognition in older adults by offsetting depressive effects on memory and mental performance (Hill et al., Frontiers in Psychology, 2021).

In clinical settings, “meaning-making” — the process of restoring or redefining purpose — mediates improvements during psychotherapy, especially in adjustment and mood disorders (Vos et al., Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, 2020). Mental health professionals increasingly view purpose as a transdiagnostic target — relevant across conditions from depression to PTSD (Boyd et al., Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 2023).

While more randomized studies are needed, the evidence is clear: cultivating meaning and purpose isn’t just philosophically fulfilling — it’s psychologically protective. Activities that reinforce values, goals, community connection, and contribution can meaningfully lessen mental health disorder symptoms and build long-term resilience.