Call of the Void: A Counterintuitive Form of Self-preservation

While the call of the void is considered a normal cognitive experience, it can sometimes cause distress. A mental health professional can help distinguish between fleeting, harmless thoughts and those that indicate a deeper mental health concern.

Though many people experience aspects of the call of the void without any deeper implications, persistent distressing thoughts should not be ignored. Understanding these thoughts can be an important step in self-awareness and emotional health.

For individuals dealing with suicidal ideation or persistent thoughts of self-harm, it’s essential to seek professional support.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.