Eco-anxiety, sometimes also known as climate anxiety, is a form of anxiety that refers to a fear of environmental doom. As a therapist, I have observed an increasing number of individuals struggling with this in recent years. It’s a relatively new phenomenon that has gained recognition as the impacts of climate change become more pronounced and the discourse around environmental issues intensifies.
What is Eco-Anxiety?
Eco-anxiety is characterised by a deep-seated worry and stress about the future of our planet and the wellbeing of its inhabitants due to environmental changes. Unlike general anxiety, which can be triggered by a variety of personal stressors, eco-anxiety is specifically linked to environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, deforestation, and the loss of biodiversity. It is often fuelled by the perception that these problems are out of one’s control and are rapidly worsening, leading to feelings of helplessness and despair.
Why is Eco-Anxiety Growing?
The rise of eco-anxiety can be attributed to several factors:
- Increased Awareness and Media Coverage: Due to the widespread use of the internet and social media, information about environmental issues is more accessible than ever. Constant exposure to alarming news about natural disasters, melting ice caps, and endangered species can exacerbate feelings of fear and anxiety.
- Scientific Consensus and Visible Impacts: The scientific community’s consensus on climate change and its tangible impacts – such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and shrinking polar ice – make the threat feel immediate and real. As these events become more frequent, the urgency of the climate crisis becomes harder to ignore.
- Personal and Collective Responsibility: Many individuals feel a profound sense of responsibility for contributing to these environmental issues and a corresponding sense of urgency to rectify them somehow. The weight of this responsibility can be overwhelming, particularly when individual actions are perceived as insufficient in the face of global challenges.
How Does Eco-Anxiety Manifest?
Eco-anxiety can manifest in various ways, both psychologically and physically. Common symptoms can include:
- Chronic Worry and Obsession: Persistent thoughts about the state of the environment and the future can dominate one’s mind, leading to an inability to focus on other aspects of life.
- Feelings of Hopelessness and Despair: The enormity of the climate crisis can lead to feelings of helplessness, powerlessness, and despair about the future.
- Guilt and Shame: Individuals may experience intense guilt and shame about their environmental footprint and lifestyle choices.
- Physical Symptoms: Anxiety about the environment can also manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, insomnia, and digestive issues.
- Behavioural Changes: Some people might change their behaviours drastically, such as adopting extreme eco-friendly practices or withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed due to the perceived environmental impact.
What Can You Do About Eco-Anxiety?
While eco-anxiety is a legitimate and rational response to the environmental crisis, it’s important to manage it effectively to maintain mental well-being. Here are some strategies that can help:
- Stay Informed, But Set Limits: Being informed is important, but it’s also crucial to set boundaries on the amount of distressing information you consume. Curate your news sources and take breaks from the constant stream of information when necessary.
- Engage in Positive Actions: Taking tangible actions, no matter how small, can help alleviate feelings of helplessness. This could include reducing your carbon footprint, supporting sustainable businesses, or participating in environmental activism.
- Focus on Collective Efforts: Remember that addressing climate change requires collective action. Joining or supporting environmental organisations and community initiatives can help you feel part of a larger movement, reducing feelings of isolation and enhancing a sense of purpose.
- Seek Support: Talking about your feelings with friends, family, or a mental health professional can provide relief. Joining support groups or communities focused on eco-anxiety can also be beneficial, as sharing experiences with others who understand can provide comfort and solidarity.
Eco-anxiety is a testament to the deep connection humans have with their environment. By understanding and addressing this anxiety, individuals can find healthier ways to cope and contribute positively to the global effort against environmental degradation. I encourage those experiencing eco-anxiety to acknowledge their feelings and seek constructive ways to channel their concern into meaningful action.