In Jain Dharma, this feeling is understood as a moment of vairagya-bhāva mixed with confusion. It means your soul is becoming aware that material life is temporary, but at the same time you still have dharma of responsibilities.

How to react:

1. Do not reject life or responsibilities.

Jainism does not ask you to abandon duty out of despair. Fulfill your responsibilities with detachment.

1. Remember the real purpose of life.

The true purpose is ātmā kalyāṇ — purification of the soul, reducing karma, and moving toward liberation.

1. Keep a balanced view.

Material things are only tools for living, not the final goal. Use them without attachment.

1. Practice small daily disciplines.

- Pratikraman or self-reflection - Japa of Navkar Mantra - Seva and compassion - Limiting greed, comparison, and overthinking

1. Observe thoughts without becoming them.

A thought like “what is the meaning of life?” is not a problem. The problem begins when the mind falls into helplessness. In Jain view, awareness is good; despair is not.

1. Turn the feeling into spiritual progress.

Ask yourself: - What attachments are making me restless? - How can I act with less ego and more awareness? - How can I live today in a way that reduces karma?

1. Stay engaged, not empty.

Depression often deepens when the mind is idle and detached without direction. Jainism teaches right conduct, not inactivity.

A simple inner attitude you can keep is:

“I will do my worldly duties, but I will not make them my identity. I am an ātmā, and my real journey is toward purity.”

If these thoughts become heavy, repeated, or make daily life difficult, it is wise to speak to a trusted elder, spiritual guide, or mental health professional. Jain Dharma supports self-care and right support.

A short practice for such moments: Take 9 deep breaths, quietly say Navkar Mantra, and remind yourself: ‘This is a phase of the mind, not the truth of the soul.’