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Need to Know
Climate anxiety, although not a medical diagnosis, is a legitimate and reasonable reaction to the current environmental challenges our planet faces.
It can manifest as worry about the future, grief for environmental losses, or anger at insufficient action on climate issues.
Unlike temporary stress, climate anxiety can be an ongoing concern that deeply affects an individual’s daily life.
Factors that contribute to climate anxiety include constant exposure to negative environmental news, personal experiences with climate-related disasters, and concerns about the future.
Symptoms may include feelings of helplessness, fear, sadness, guilt, and anger, as well as physical symptoms such as sleep disturbances and loss of appetite.
A recent study by the NIH found that more than half of 16- to 25-year-olds around the world are extremely worried about climate change.
Things to Avoid
Avoid minimizing the feelings associated with climate anxiety. Phrases such as, “Just relax, it’s not that bad,” can be dismissive.
Don’t make assumptions about the severity of someone’s climate anxiety or suggest that everyone should feel the same level of concern.
Be cautious about sharing unverified information or doomsday scenarios that may exacerbate anxiety.
Refrain from prescribing specific coping mechanisms as a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person may not work for another.
Your Opportunity
Normalize and validate emotional reactions to climate change by sharing your own experiences or stories in a relatable way.
Highlight the importance of seeking support from mental health professionals if worry about the climate is interfering with quality of life or the ability to get things done.
Use your platform to promote positive actions such as staying informed, engaging in environmental activism, practicing sustainability, and seeking support from like-minded communities.
Share resources that offer factual information, practical tips for sustainable living, and mental health support for people struggling with climate anxiety.
Explore these tips for helping young adults who are worried about the climate.
You have the unique ability to foster a supportive community that acknowledges climate anxiety and encourages proactive engagement with the issue.
By doing so, you can help alleviate feelings of isolation and empower your audience to find collective strength in working toward a healthier planet and a brighter future.
Resources
The Jed Foundation →
Visit the JED Mental Health Resource Center if you’re worried about yourself or a friend.
University of Colorado →
6 tips for coping with climate anxiety the University of Colorado.
Harvard Health Publishing →
If climate change keeps you up at night, here’s how to cope from Harvard Health Publishing.
Mental Health Media Guide
Visit the Mental Health Media Guide resource on managing Climate Anxiety
Good Grief Network →
The Good Grief Network connects people to work through eco-anxiety and take collective action.
988 Hotline →
Dial 988 or text HOME to 741-741 for a free, confidential conversation with a trained counselor 24/7.
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