Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the psychological challenges faced by university students, focusing on their struggles with self-identity, emotional distress, and interpersonal relationships, and emphasizes the importance of understanding and supporting their mental health needs [5][15][68]. Group 1: Self-Exploration - Many students express deep confusion about their identity, often struggling to articulate their strengths, desires, and life goals [8][9]. - The concept of identity development is crucial during adolescence, with Erikson's theory highlighting the importance of achieving a stable sense of self [11][12]. - The emergence of a new developmental stage, termed "emerging adulthood," reflects the delayed self-exploration among young people due to societal changes [13][14]. Group 2: Emotional Distress - Students frequently experience emotional turmoil, feeling lost and overwhelmed by the pressures of academic and social expectations [19][20]. - The phenomenon of learned helplessness illustrates how repeated failures can lead to a sense of hopelessness among students [21][24]. - Many students are caught between their past experiences and future aspirations, leading to anxiety and indecision about their life choices [26][28]. Group 3: Interpersonal Relationships - Healthy interpersonal relationships are vital for reducing anxiety and depression, yet loneliness is a common issue among university students [69][70]. - The need for personal boundaries has become increasingly important, with students expressing discomfort with those who lack respect for their personal space [75][76]. - The quality of relationships significantly impacts happiness and well-being, as evidenced by long-term studies on human development [69][90]. Group 4: Coping Mechanisms - Emotional expression, such as crying, is often viewed negatively, leading students to suppress their feelings, which can exacerbate mental health issues [46][56]. - Self-criticism and internalized societal expectations contribute to a cycle of self-attack, making it difficult for students to recognize their achievements and needs [60][66]. - The article advocates for a compassionate approach to self-care, encouraging students to treat themselves with kindness and understanding [67][98]. Group 5: Social Dynamics - The dynamics of friendship and romantic relationships have shifted, with many students feeling disconnected and hesitant to engage deeply with others [78][82]. - The fear of rejection and the pressure to maintain a façade of independence can hinder students from forming meaningful connections [85][87]. - The concept of "Dunbar's number" suggests that maintaining stable relationships is a gradual process that requires time and effort [88][90]. Group 6: Conclusion - The article emphasizes the complexity of young people's psychological experiences, advocating for a nuanced understanding of their struggles and the importance of providing supportive environments for their growth [92][96]. - It highlights the role of psychological counseling in helping students navigate their challenges and fostering resilience [97][100].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the article is that existential anxiety arises from conflicts within one's psyche, leading to feelings of confusion and lack of direction in life [1][2][3] - The article identifies four typical conflicts that contribute to this confusion, including the clash between ideal self and real self, which often results from societal and familial expectations [2][3][4] - The concept of "analysis paralysis" is introduced, highlighting how an overload of choices in modern society can hinder decision-making and lead to inaction [4][5][6] Group 2 - The article discusses the psychological defense mechanisms that can fail, causing individuals to mask their confusion with busyness, which ultimately leads to deeper self-doubt [9][10] - It emphasizes the importance of finding meaning in life, as many individuals struggle with existential emptiness when they cannot identify their purpose [10][12] - The article suggests practical solutions for overcoming confusion, such as returning to one's core desires, reducing decision-making burdens, and taking small actions instead of grand plans [14][15][18] Group 3 - The article posits that confusion is a signal of growth, indicating a necessary phase in psychological development, and encourages individuals to embrace it rather than eliminate it [24][25] - It highlights the importance of self-exploration and taking action to address real needs instead of blindly following societal scripts [25]