Photo by Anna Shvets
Have you ever worked on a school project related to plastic pollution or deforestation? Have you sat down and thought that future generations would have to live in a world even more inundated with pollution and climate issues than ours? This is eco-anxiety. Defined by Dr. Joseph Dodds from the Psychology Faculty at the University of New York in Prague, eco-anxiety is "a chronic fear of environmental doom."
This fear can have significant implications on a person’s daily life, from causing mild stress to creating anxiety that can lead to depression and even suicide. On the other hand, eco-anxiety is a multi-faceted topic. Along with the cons, eco-anxiety can bring about positive change. People of all demographics, nationalities, and genders come together to take action, uniting with the fear of an unhealthy environment in the future. This, in turn, leads to a larger number of people becoming aware of this issue. Understanding the implications of eco-anxiety and exploring effective coping strategies is crucial for fostering a healthier, more resilient society.
This fear of climate change can have serious implications on a person’s mental health, and this fear affects thousands of people around the world. Bringing awareness to the dangers of eco-anxiety is important to the therapeutic and psychological industries today.
A therapeutic approach known as cognitive-behavioral therapy can be effective in managing this anxiety. Therapists use this tactic to change a person's perspective from something like, "Our earth is getting worse each day" to "Maybe I can do something about this issue." Beyond therapists, people around the world come together to help each other and spread awareness of the mental health implications of eco-anxiety. For example, the Good Grief Network in the USA is a safe space where people can share their thoughts and feelings related to eco-stress and anxiety.
One crucial aspect often overlooked when discussing eco-anxiety is the social dynamics surrounding this issue. Those suffering from eco-anxiety may feel isolated, especially if their concerns are not shared by their immediate social circles. This can lead to strained relationships and a sense of alienation. We can counter these issues with small actions that help others and, in turn, our environment. For instance, participating in environmental activism can turn anxiety into action. Organizations like the Extinction Rebellion encourage peaceful protests and civil disobedience to demand policy changes. This activism not only contributes to the environmental cause but also provides a sense of agency and community for participants. Additionally, adopting a sustainable lifestyle can alleviate some of the guilt and helplessness associated with eco-anxiety. For example, the Zero Waste movement promotes reducing personal waste through reusable products, composting, and mindful consumption. Individuals can join local Zero Waste groups for support and ideas, further fostering community and shared purpose.
Eco-anxiety is a complex and multifaceted issue, reflecting the profound impact of environmental crises on human psychology. But through education, mental health support, activism, sustainable living, and creating a connection with nature, we can navigate the challenges of eco-anxiety and work towards a healthier planet and society.
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