Eco Anxiety
I thought this time it might be good to focus on eco-anxiety, or climate anxiety, which the University of Colorado defines as “distressing feelings related to climate change impacts”, such as grief, anger, hopelessness and fatigue, often rooted in uncertainty over the future and inability to control what will happen. The university provides some helpful guidance for better mental health, summarised in the six following points.
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Focus on what you can control. Remind yourself that climate change cannot be solved by any one person, organisation or government on their own. Things that are within your control include: building more sustainable habits around recycling, composting, consumerism and transportation; participating in climate change initiatives, perhaps by writing to local or national leaders; and donating to organisations or causes.
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Avoid overload. Choose a particular area of concern and work on that.
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Practise compassion. It might not be feasible, for example, to recycle every item you can. Beating yourself up about it or worrying that you could be doing more can increase stress, making it difficult to move forward. Validating your concerns with affirmations can help, so, “It’s OK to feel stressed about climate change. I can make a difference, and big changes are going to take time. I can take a break: this issue is important but so is my mental health.”
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Take a break from climate news. It’s important to be informed but if it becomes an additional burden, then switch off perhaps by turning off your news feed or simply spending time in the beautiful world you’re passionate about.
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Remember that you’re not alone. There are a lot of people concerned about climate change who are working to make a difference. Connecting with others can help cultivate a sense of hope for the future and encouragement to continue with what needs to be done.
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Talk to someone about how you’re feeling. Climate anxiety is a very real experience, especially for those in the 16-25 age bracket. Talking it through with someone can help in the present moment and provide skills for coping in the future.
A prayer from the Iona Community:
At the turning of the year,
turn our ache into action.
At the turning of the year,
turn our fear towards love.
At the turning of the year,
re-turn our hearts to you,
loving, living God. Amen