Climate Anxiety

Reading headlines about our changing climate can be overwhelming. Here at Sustain, we explore how to protect the planet, but we also understand the worry that comes with learning the facts. Climate anxiety is natural. Also known as “eco-anxiety,” these are feelings connected to climate change’s immediate and long-term impact on nature and humans.

Felt by more than 65% of people globally, climate anxiety is a rising mental and physical health threat. These concerns are even higher among youth who worry about the harsh effects in the coming decades. How do we begin tackling a topic as big as eco-anxiety? A great place to begin is deciding what you can control.

Activism journeys differ depending on ability, income, resources, and access to a community. Here are a few basics for managing this unique type of stress:

Acknowledge your feelings

Remember that you are not alone in your fear. Speaking about your concerns is essential in managing symptoms of a type of worry that is still new to us. You may be surprised to hear how many people feel the same way!

Take a media break

Sometimes, it’s best to step away from the news. Put down the phone and shut off the television to reconnect with nature, spend time with friends and family, or indulge in a hobby to take your mind away from overwhelming facts. When you’re ready to resume, check out the Environmental Defense Fund’s website for weekly good-news-only climate updates.

Focus on the small steps

Signing a petition, switching to reusable bags, carpooling when possible, and avoiding littering are quick and easy steps toward sustainability. Be patient with yourself. Just a few minutes browsing Sustain blogs is a perfect start!

When climate anxiety begins to arise, recognize that it’s normal. Some of the most significant climate threats are in the hands of corporations with extensive reach. If we continue to play our small parts in making change, we’ll create long-lasting impacts on our future planet.

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