Climate change is no longer a distant threat – it’s a present reality fueling growing anxiety. More than 45% of young people report that worries about the environment are impacting their daily lives. This distress, often called “eco-anxiety,” is a normal response to an abnormal situation, and increasingly, mental health professionals are finding ways to help people navigate these feelings.
Here’s what experts recommend for managing eco-anxiety, moving beyond paralyzing fear to constructive action:
1. Embrace, Don’t Suppress, Your Feelings
Unlike typical anxiety where irrational fears are often disproportionate to the actual risk, eco-anxiety is arguably a rational reaction to a clear and present danger. Trying to downplay or deny these feelings isn’t effective. Instead, experts recommend mindfulness – learning to accept and tolerate your distress without letting it control you. As Dr. Caroline Hickman of the University of Bath puts it, “We’re not going to reduce a person’s anxiety by telling them this isn’t terrifying, because that’s a lie.”
2. Take Action: Channel Anxiety into Empowerment
Anxiety thrives on helplessness. Counteract this by actively engaging in climate solutions. This could involve political activism, volunteering with environmental groups, or simply making sustainable lifestyle changes. As Dr. Liza Jachens of the University of Nottingham explains, “Channeling anxiety into action can have a transformational effect.” Action provides a sense of control and shifts focus from despair to agency.
3. Seek Specialized Support
Not all therapists are equipped to handle climate-related distress. Look for a professional who understands eco-anxiety specifically. Some identify as “climate-aware,” recognizing the unique psychological challenges posed by the environmental crisis. The Climate Psychology Alliance offers resources for finding qualified support, including online “climate cafes” for peer connection. Avoid generic advice – this is a niche issue requiring informed guidance.
4. Connect with Others Who Understand
Isolation amplifies anxiety. Joining support groups or online communities where people share similar concerns can be profoundly therapeutic. Research shows that eco-anxiety support groups reduce distress and foster a sense of belonging. Dr. Panu Pihkala of the University of Helsinki emphasizes, “You’re not alone… Don’t remain alone.” Shared experience normalizes feelings and provides mutual encouragement.
5. Reconnect with Nature
Ironically, spending time in the natural world you fear losing can be deeply healing. Studies suggest that walking in nature, gardening, or simply being present outdoors reduces anxiety and boosts mental well-being. These activities foster a sense of connection to the planet, reminding you of what you’re fighting to protect.
The Bottom Line: Eco-anxiety is a legitimate response to a real crisis. Managing it requires accepting your feelings, taking action, and seeking informed support. By channeling anxiety into constructive efforts, you can not only cope but contribute to a more sustainable future.
Editorial Sources: The information in this article is based on peer-reviewed studies, expert interviews, and reputable sources, including The Lancet Planetary Health, The Journal of Climate Change and Health, and the Climate Psychology Alliance.
