Exploring the Roles of Existential Loneliness and Need for Uniqueness in the Relationship Between Existential Isolation and Depressive Symptoms

Existential isolation (EI) has been linked to depressive symptoms, yet evidence suggests it is not always distressing and can be meaningful for some individuals by satisfying their desire for uniqueness. To explore the mechanism between EI and depressive symptoms, the present study examined whether existential loneliness (EL) mediates the association, and whether need for uniqueness (NU) moderates the EI–EL link. Using a cross-sectional questionnaire design, data were collected from a representative sample of 379 UK adults aged 18 to 87 ( M = 46.84, SD = 15.57). Correlation analysis, mediation, and moderated mediation analysis were conducted. Results showed that EL partially mediated the relationship between EI and depressive symptoms, while NU did not significantly moderate the EI–EL link. Post-hoc exploratory quadratic regression analyses and two-lines test revealed a U-shaped relationship between NU and depressive symptoms. These findings underscore EL’s role in the relationship between EI and depressive symptoms, suggesting that EL may serve as a potential target for interventions addressing depressive symptoms. In addition, while NU did not moderate the EI-EL relationship, it may serve as a useful indicator for identifying individuals at risk of depressive symptoms, specifically those with higher and lower levels of NU.