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When you think about climate change, the first thought that may come to mind is environmental impact. However, have you ever considered how it could affect someone’s mental health? There’s a growing trend of individuals experiencing what’s called eco-anxiety. It’s often described as an extreme ongoing distress people feel because they fear the planet will suffer a climate-related cataclysmic doom.
You turn on the TV or scroll through your social media on your phone, and the headlines tell of one horrific weather event after another, such as floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, and more. And of course, there’s also news of the planet’s rising temperatures. Many people report that their stress stems from feeling powerless in the face of global problems. Although eco-anxiety isn’t a medically recognized disorder, the American Psychological Association does acknowledge it as a legitimate response to actual global weather-related threats.
What eco-anxiety feels like
For some, climate-related worry is recurring thoughts about environmental disasters or a constant dread about the future. Others experience it more physically, with symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, or persistent fatigue. The emotional side effects run the gamut, such as guilt, grief, or anger. Meanwhile, some individuals may struggle to concentrate or battle feelings of helplessness. One international study revealed that 60% of young people worry about climate change.
Exposure to catastrophic weather emergencies can trigger eco-anxiety. Stress levels can rise whether someone is involved in a wildfire or watches a hurricane video. Any encounter with a natural disaster makes anxiety relief a challenge.
Constructive coping methods for eco-anxiety
Eco-anxiety can weigh heavily on someone’s state of well-being. Fortunately, the condition is manageable with the help of a few proactive measures. You can make lifestyle changes, such as using public transportation, reducing meat and dairy consumption, or adopting other green energy plans. The actions may help you pivot from helplessness to empowerment.
Another helpful tip is to switch up your media habits. With today’s 24/7 news cycles, there’s a thin line between staying in the know and information overload. For example, turn off news alerts or set aside 30 minutes daily to catch up on current events. These coping strategies keep you aware of what’s going on in the world while curtailing the anxiety-inducing effects of doomscrolling climate coverage.
When it’s time to seek expert help
Eco-anxiety has the potential to disrupt someone’s daily routine. How do you know if you need professional counseling or therapy? A few red flags include the inability to work, maintain relationships, or enjoy activities due to excessive worry. To address these issues, some mental health practitioners specialize in climate-related anxiety. As a result, they can provide tailored support for individuals struggling to manage the condition.
A healthy planet is a personal matter
Individuals with eco-anxiety often have a desire to take care of the planet. At the root of those feelings is compassion and awareness. Instead of ignoring those virtues, the key is to channel them into worthwhile action. Even the smallest environmentally safe endeavors can help combat climate change. In the process, it helps people feel more in control of their lives.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider.