The topic of climate change is more complicated than just warming temperatures and erratic weather. Under the umbrella of climate change also fall serious health concerns such as tropical diseases, economic damage, political strife, and even mental health issues.
It is quite a broad area of subject that at most times could bring any news watcher worry and anxiety for their future, or even feeling guilt for not doing enough to save the planet? Well, you're not alone. In fact, day by day more Americans are beginning to feel eco-anxiety.
The good news is that there are fruitful ways of easing your anxiety so you can turn your stress and fear to climate action.
What Is Eco-Anxiety?
Eco-anxiety is a fairly new affliction that is characterized by the pressing fear and anxiety about the "doom" that can be experienced from extreme weather such as droughts, floods, and hurricanes. The level of anxiety felt by people with eco-anxiety is almost at par with phobias with its characteristic of daily worry and despair.
It is also characterized by feelings of loss and helplessness, as well as worry for the future and oneself. People with eco-anxiety also often feel certain levels of frustration from not being able to do enough in stopping climate change.
A recent study tagged eco-anxiety as one of the main impacts of climate change on mental health, along with trauma, PTSD, and depression. They did, however, also give some insight on what can be done to relieve the anxiety brought about by climate change or after directly experiencing its damaging effects.
Personal Actions
It all starts on the inside, and it is just as important as tackling climate change head on. Experts suggest that building and believing in one's own resilience and capability to survive gives way to a healthier approach in coping with sources of stress such as disasters.
Fostering optimism even amidst disasters also helps regulate the thinking and coping mechanism despite adverse circumstances. Finding personal meaning through faith and spiritual communities also allows people to manage their emotions, and find meaning in their lives even in the face of adversity.
That being said, being mentally and physically prepared for any disasters also boosts feelings of confidence and safety, and reduces fear.
Social Preparation
Social networks both on and offline can provide relevant spiritual and material support in times of strife. In the case of Hurricane Katrina, people found that comfort, support, and empathy through their "church families" even amidst the disaster.
Children also need the support and connection from their families when disasters strike. It is important to note that they are more vulnerable to trauma and long-term stress burdens, especially when the parents themselves are experiencing stress.
As such, it is important to keep them connected to other family members and friends who can give them the emotional support that they need, and communicate with them so that they, too, will build resilience and coping mechanisms.
We've all seen just what climate can do to life and property. Even communities have been broken down due to its effects such as droughts and flooding. Even so, having healthy self and community preparations can help ease your eco-anxiety, and eventually turn your worries and concern for the environment into action instead of crippling fear.
