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 Tips For Dealing With Climate Anxiety 

Amid our present-day challenges, feelings of overwhelm, disconnection, frustration, and fear have become commonplace. "The threat even bigger than climate change" is the mindset we adopt to confront it.

What is climate anxiety and why is it a common human experience?

Climate anxiety, also known as eco-anxiety and climate distress, refers to the psychological distress stemming from the climate crisis. It manifests as an overwhelming sense of fear, sadness, and existential dread in the face of a warming planet (Romeo, Jess, 2021).

While climate anxiety is widespread, surveys indicate that around 70% of Americans aged 18 to 34 worry about global warming, compared to 56% of those aged 55 and older. One prominent factor contributing to this disparity is mindset.

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Why do teenagers experience more climate despair?

Teens often grapple with a deeper sense of despair regarding current events due to the distinct challenges they face compared to older generations. Their frustration primarily arises from the issue of inaction, which is within their power to address. Yet, in a society driven by capitalism and political gains, it can be challenging to see the broader picture amid numerous uncontrollable factors.

 

How can we combat climate anxiety?

Developing strategies to adapt and cope is crucial in addressing the physical and psychological impacts of climate change (Hobfoll, Stevens, & Zalta, 2015). If necessary, seek for a help from medical professional. 

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Self-help practices:

  1. Build a belief in your own strength: Individuals with a positive outlook on their ability to overcome stress and trauma tend to fare better (Shenesey & Langhirichsen-Rohling, 2015).

  2. Foster optimism: Cultivate optimism by surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals, practicing self-compassion, and maintaining a balance to avoid excessive optimism, which can lead to disappointment.

  3. Look out for good news: Stay informed about positive developments in the realm of climate action.

  4. Maintain social connections: A strong and supportive social network offers emotional and material support (Cain & Barthelemy, 2008; Marks et al., 2015).

Build a greater connection to nearby nature: Regular contact with nature contributes significantly to people's health and well-being (Victoria Derr, 2015).

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Building a stronger community:

  1. Engage community members: Involving the community in adaptation and resilience planning enhances the likelihood of success (Cox, 2012; Moser & Boykoff, 2013; Moser & Pike, 2015; Norris et al., 2008).

  2. Provide opportunities for meaningful action: Encourage community participation in resilience-building efforts, instilling confidence in collective efficacy and the availability of support (Kaniasty, 2012; Kaniasty & Norris, 2009).

  3. Reduce disparities: Address disparities within communities, as demonstrated by the difference in fatality rates during the 1995 Chicago Heatwave between Auburn Gresham and Englewood Neighborhoods. Communities with a stronger social fabric tend to exhibit better individual mental health (Friedli, 2009).

 

Self-help resources:

Books:

  • "A Field Guide to Climate Anxiety" by Sarah Jaquette Ray (2020)

  • "All We Can Save" by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson & Katharine K. Wilkinson (Eds) (2021)

Websites:

  • Resources for working with climate emotions (allwecansave.earth; 2021)

  • Where to find help? (Climateandmind.org; 2019)

PDFs:

  • Emotional Resilience Toolkit for Climate Work

  • Mental Health and Our Changing Climate: Impacts, Implication, and Guidance

Sources:

Videos:

  • Clover Hogan: What to do when climate change feels unstoppable (TED, 2021)

  • James Marden: Overcoming climate anxiety (TEDxUniversiteitVanAmsterdam, 2021)

  • Renée Lertzman: How to turn climate anxiety into action (TED, 2020)

Websites:

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