That is an unusual way to describe it. :)
Usually the existential crisis starts when a person has realized that he or she has more freedom of choice than previously thought. Meaning that they start to question all the decisions they’ve taken so far.
I would like to add that a crisis often is released by a loss - either the death of a person, a thing, part of identity (or whole identity) or health.
On the identity side I would also say that what people underestimate is how they perceive "the world/humanity" has lost it's virtues/values. Like honesty, dignity, trust, empathy and so on. I add that to the spiritual realm as psychology & philosophy are important to us.
The freedom to choose to find meaning is from my point of view already pointing into the process of becoming better and stepping out of the crisis. But I guess I know what you mean: To realize that one has the freedom to let go of blame, game, hate & co can be frightened at first. Not easy to let go of the habitual path.
I liked how you so straightforward talked about people lying to themselves.
Thanks for the additional information. What you say is true, but I wanted to discuss it in a more general manner, closer to most people. I tend to be as much as straightforward as I can.
HaHa! Now that I read my comment again: couldn't resist to add. Oh well, sometimes I just should stay with what one offers! Thanks for giving your insights. I am glad that what I read from you is what I also wish for myself and others. Take care, my friend.