Climate Anxiety: How the Fear of Climate Change is Impacting Our Mental Health

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and it is no surprise that it is causing anxiety and fear for many people. Climate anxiety, also known as eco-anxiety, is a type of anxiety that is specifically related to climate change and its impact on our planet. In this article, we will explore how climate anxiety can affect your mental health and what you can do to cope with it.

What is climate anxiety?

Climate anxiety is a type of anxiety triggered by the fear of climate change and its impact on our planet. This can include feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and despair, as well as fear and worry about the future. Climate anxiety can also stem from the sense of responsibility that individuals feel to address the issue of climate change. One of the reasons why climate anxiety is becoming more prevalent is due to the severity of climate change and its implications for our future. Many people feel overwhelmed and helpless in the face of this global crisis, leading to feelings of fear, worry, and stress. These emotions can manifest in physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and sweating.

Climate anxiety is a relatively new concept, and it is not yet recognised as a formal diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). However, it is a real and growing concern, and it is important to address it before it begins to impact our mental health.

How climate anxiety can impact your mental health

Climate anxiety can have a significant impact on our mental health. It can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, which can, in turn, lead to depression and anxiety disorders. In some cases, climate anxiety can also lead to feelings of guilt and shame, as individuals may feel responsible for the state of the planet.

Furthermore, climate anxiety can also cause physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and insomnia. It can also affect our relationships, as we may feel disconnected from others who do not share our concerns about climate change.

Also read: Can Anxiety Affect Your Health?

Ways to cope with climate anxiety

If you are experiencing climate anxiety, there are several ways to cope with it. First, it is important to stay informed about climate change, but to also limit your exposure to negative news stories that may exacerbate your anxiety. Try to focus on positive stories and solutions, such as individuals and organisations taking action to address climate change.

It is also helpful to take action in your own life to reduce your carbon footprint. This can include things like reducing your energy consumption, eating a plant-based diet, and using public transportation instead of driving. Taking action can help you feel empowered and can also reduce your feelings of helplessness.

Finally, it is important to seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if you are struggling with climate anxiety. Talking to someone who understands your concerns can be incredibly helpful, and a mental health professional can provide you with tools and strategies to cope with your anxiety.

Conclusion

Climate anxiety is a real and growing concern, and it is important to address it before it begins to impact our mental health. By staying informed, taking action, and seeking support, we can cope with our anxiety and work towards a better future for our planet. Remember, you are not alone in your concerns about climate change, and together, we can make a difference.

You might also like: I Am Suffering From Depression And Anxiety. What Should I Do?

References

Clayton, S., Manning, C. M., & Hodge, C. (2014). Beyond "Awareness": The role of emotional dissonance in engaging people in climate change. Ethics, Policy & Environment, 17(1), 41-56. doi: 10.1080/21550085.2014.882604

Clayton, S., Manning, C. M., Krygsman, K., & Speiser, M. (2017). Mental health and our changing climate: Impacts, implications, and guidance. American Psychological Association and ecoAmerica.

Doherty, T. J., & Clayton, S. (2011). The psychological impacts of global climate change. American Psychologist, 66(4), 265-276. doi: 10.1037/a0023141

Reser, J. P., Bradley, G. L., & Ellul, M. C. (2014). Encountering climate change: "Seeing" is more than "believing". Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Climate Change, 5(4), 521-537. doi: 10.1002/wcc.284

Swim, J., Clayton, S., Doherty, T., Gifford, R., Howard, G. S., Reser, J. P., & Stern, P. C. (2011). Psychology and global climate change: Addressing a multi-faceted phenomenon and set of challenges. A report by the American Psychological Association's Task Force on the Interface Between Psychology and Global Climate Change. American Psychological Association.