What Is Eco-Anxiety and How Can I Manage It?

Let’s be real, it’s hard to turn on the news or scroll through social media without being inundated with stories about climate change. The effects of climate change are already being felt all over the world, and it seems like every day there is a new report about how things are only going to get worse. For many people, this can be really scary. We get it.

What many don’t know is that climate change and its effects can lead to a mental health condition called eco-anxiety. In this post, we will discuss the term eco-anxiety, what it is,

and how you can manage it effectively.

What Is Eco-Anxiety and How Can I Manage It?

What Is Eco Anxiety?

Eco-anxiety, also known as climate anxiety, is a chronic fear of environmental doom. It can manifest itself in different ways, such as feeling overwhelmed or helpless when thinking about climate change and its effects. Mental health professionals have begun to recognize eco-anxiety as a real condition that needs to be taken seriously. Below, we are going to check out the symptoms and how you can find resources to help you with what you’re feeling. Remember, you’re never alone!

Eco Anxiety Symptoms: What to Look for

Persistent Worry

Many people explain feelings of persistent worry because of ongoing concerns about the environment including climate change, pollution, habitat destruction, heat waves, and species extinction.

Feelings of Helplessness

You may often experience a sense of powerlessness or a severe inability to make a meaningful impact when it comes to environmental issues. This can sadly lead to feelings of frustration, sadness, and despair.

Grief and Loss

This symptom is very common and also understandable. Witnessing such a negative impact on the environment can leave you with feelings of grief and loss for the natural world.

Physical Symptoms

Some people dealing with this condition can often experience many physical symptoms. Some of these symptoms include headache, nausea, muscle tension, fatigue, or stomach aches due to stress related to environmental factors.

Difficulty Concentrating

Eco-anxiety can definitely affect concentration and focus. This makes it really hard to complete tasks and engage in every day activities.

Changes in Mood

Some individuals can experience mood swings, moodiness, and general irritability as a result on eco-anxiety and the impact of your overall well-being.

Avoidance Behaviors

Some people may try to cope with eco-anxiety by avoiding discussions or information about environmental issues. Sadly, this can lead to feelings of isolation or disconnection.

Anxiety and Depression

Eco-anxiety can create feelings of anxiety and depression. This is even more common in individuals who already deal with these mental illnesses.

What Can I Do About Eco Anxiety?

The first step in coping with this condition is to become informed about the issues related to climate change and public health. It can be helpful to research ways that you can make a difference, no matter how small, in order to feel more empowered. It is also important to take care of your mental and physical health by exercising, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep.

Eco Anxiety Support Groups to Help You

Online Forums and Communities

There are a lot of online platforms that host forums or groups dedicated to discussing eco-anxiety and related topics. You can check out websites like Reddit, Facebook, or other dedicated forums on environmental websites may have active communities where you can share experiences and provide support other people while they also support you.

Local Environmental Organizations

If you’re looking for help within your local area, make sure you check out local environmental organizations or advocacy groups in your area. Some may offer support groups, workshops, or events focused on eco-anxiety and mental health in relation to environmental issues. You can easily find help from environmental organisations within the United States online.

Therapist Referrals

There are so many mental health professionals, including therapists and counselors, that may be able to provide support or refer individuals to specialized support groups for eco-anxiety. Try to look for therapists who have experience or have a specific interest in eco-psychology or environmental mental health.

University or College Groups

If you’re currently a student experiencing eco-anxiety, your university or college may have student-led groups or counseling services that work with young people that are suffering from this condition and provide support to students struggling with environmental concerns. It can also help young adults connect with similar minded people and foster a sense of community.

Online Therapy Platforms

Some online therapy platforms offer support groups or counseling services tailored to those dealing with eco-anxiety and related issues. These platforms may also give you access to licensed therapists or peer support groups. All of these things can be greatly helpful when struggling with eco-anxiety.

Climate Action Networks

There are plenty of climate action networks or grassroots environmental organizations that organize support groups or workshops focused on helping people with eco-anxiety. They also have a specific focus on helping people take action on environmental issues.

Self-Help Resources

As with most things, there are plenty of self-help resources online that can help. You can try read some books, listen to podcasts, and take online courses that will help you understand and deal with your eco-anxiety.

How To Deal With Eco Anxiety

When it comes to managing eco-anxiety, start small. Caring for the environment and working towards sustainable solutions can be daunting tasks, but even small steps can make a difference in the long run. Spend time in green spaces-

-such as parks or forests–to ground yourself. Surrounding yourself with people of like mind who are also passionate about environmental issues can help you feel less isolated and powerless. Seeking out support groups is another great way to get your feelings off your chest and draw from their shared knowledge. Committing to responsible consumption and recycling habits will help reduce your own impact on the climate crisis.

Modeling these behaviors to others is an important step in protecting our planet for future generations. Taking action by joining protests, petitions, and other initiatives to help bring about long-term change is essential. Most importantly, take time to appreciate nature in order to gain perspective and reduce extreme weather events.

By taking steps towards managing eco-anxiety, you can begin to feel less scared of the real threats posed by climate change and the natural disasters that follow. The key is understanding that together, we can make a difference for our planet and its inhabitants. So start today – you won’t regret it!

Remember, you don’t need to go through anything alone. So, if you’re experiencing eco-anxiety and it is taking a toll on your mental health, don’t be afraid to reach out to someone you trust like a friend, family member, or professional. You’re not alone!