Does leaving a legacy help us cope with mortality? Israeli study examines mental health link
How do we face our own mortality and not just those of our loved ones who have passed away? What does it mean to feel that a part of us will live on after we are gone?
A Hebrew University of Jerusalem study of 3,000 Israeli Jews examined the connection between believing others will remember one's legacy and mental health. Participants who felt they would be remembered reported better mental health, stronger meaning in life, and lower levels of problematic substance use and addictive behaviors.
This study, published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, suggests that the desire to be remembered after death may be linked to mental well-being and coping mechanisms for mortality. Researchers found a correlation between a stronger sense of symbolic immortality (believing some part of oneself will continue through relationships, identity, or accomplishments) and higher self-esteem, stronger social support, more meaning in life, and more secure relationships.
People with a greater belief in symbolic immortality also reported fewer symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, sleep problems, and emotional regulation difficulties. Additionally, they exhibited lower levels of problematic alcohol, cannabis, prescription drug use, and addictive behaviors like gambling and pornography.
While the correlations were generally modest, they persisted across various mental health and addiction-related outcomes. Dr. Uri Lifshin, one of the study's authors, explained that feeling connected to others, having a sense of meaning, and believing that one's life will extend beyond the present moment may help individuals cope with mortality.
The researchers noted that the study was conducted during a challenging period, including the 2025 Operation Swords of Iron conflict, and participants' responses may have been influenced by ongoing threats and bereavement. The study emphasizes that the desire to be remembered may not be inherently narcissistic, as even non-religious individuals can feel a strong sense of symbolic immortality.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
