Climate anxiety refers to the feelings of fear, worry, or helplessness people experience when thinking about the impacts of climate change. As awareness of the climate crisis grows, more individuals are grappling with its emotional toll on their mental health. These feelings are normal. Finding ways to cope can help you be stronger and stay motivated to take action. 

This page provides insight into the effects of climate anxiety, coping strategies, and resources for mental health support. If climate anxiety feels overwhelming, text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a trained volunteer Crisis Counselor for confidential, 24/7 support at no cost.

Understanding Climate Anxiety #

Climate anxiety, also known as eco-anxiety or climate change anxiety, refers to the chronic fear of environmental doom. It often arises from an increased awareness of environmental issues and the sense that these problems are escalating. This form of anxiety manifests in a variety of ways, including: 

• Overwhelming worry about the future and the planet’s sustainability.
• Feelings of helplessness or lack of control over environmental outcomes. 
• Grief or sadness for environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity (e.g., destruction of natural habitats, the extinction of species, or the loss of beautiful landscape).
• Frustration or anger toward perceived inaction on climate change by governments, corporations, or communities in addressing environmental issues effectively.

Signs and Symptoms Associated With Climate Anxiety #

• Fatigue
• Persistent headaches or other physical discomfort 
• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite 
• Constant worrying 
• Depression or prolonged feelings of sadness
• Panic attacks

Coping with Climate Anxiety #

Self-care plays a vital role in managing climate anxiety. It is essential for maintaining mental health and fostering hope. Consider reviewing strategies to cope with climate anxiety, including:

• Educate yourself and take action: Learn about actionable steps to combat climate change, such as reducing waste, advocating for policy changes, or supporting sustainable businesses. Small actions, like joining a local community garden or climate action group, can help you feel connected to a broader movement.
• Set boundaries with news consumption: While staying informed is important, constant exposure to alarming news can amplify anxiety. Limit news consumption to specific times and rely on credible sources.
• Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity.
• Focus on what you can control: Redirect your energy toward achievable goals, such as planting native species in your area or advocating for local environmental initiatives.
• Seek professional support: Talking to a therapist with experience in eco-anxiety or environmental grief can provide personalized coping strategies.
• Spend time in nature: Spending time outdoors can reduce stress, boost mood, and increase feelings of connection with the environment. If this isn’t possible, bring nature indoors by adding plants to your indoor space, listening to nature sounds, or watching videos of beautiful landscapes.

Climate Anxiety and Youth #

Younger generations are particularly affected by climate anxiety. A global survey of 10,000 young people across 10 countries revealed that nearly 60% felt very worried about climate change, with over half expressing sadness, anxiety, anger, guilt, and other emotions.

Youth-led climate movements demonstrate how channeling anxiety into action can empower younger generations and build community. If you or someone you know wants to make a difference, review these  9 Things You Can Do Right Now to combat climate change and ease anxiety.

Tips on How to Talk About Climate Anxiety #

Discussing climate anxiety can be challenging, but starting conversations with trusted individuals can provide relief. Here are some tips:

Tip #1: Acknowledge your emotions  #

Share how you feel without minimizing your experiences. For example: “I’ve been feeling anxious about the environment lately, and I’d like to talk about it.” 

Tip #2:  Find supportive communities  #

Join online forums or groups like the Good Grief Network, which focuses on eco-anxiety and emotional resilience. 

Tip #3: Focus on long-term solutions #

Highlight actions you or others can take or are taking to address climate issues. This can provide hope and motivation.

Applying these tips can help you feel more connected to our planet and empowered, laying the groundwork for resilience and clarity in the face of uncertainty.

How Climate Change Affects Individuals and Families #

Climate change has direct and indirect effects on individuals and families, influencing their mental and emotional well-being. Common factors include:

• Displacement and migration: Natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and flooding can force families to relocate, leading to stress, loss, and uncertainty about the future. 
• Economic stress: Rising cost of living and damage to homes, crops, or businesses due to climate events create financial strain, leading to anxiety.
• Health impacts: Extreme weather can exacerbate health issues, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. This can lead to a sense of helplessness and frustration. 
• Intergenerational effects: Parents and caregivers may experience heightened stress about the future they are leaving behind for their children, while children and teens may feel anxiety about the uncertain world they are inheriting. 

For families facing climate-related stress, it’s essential to support one another, seek professional guidance, and take proactive steps to build resilience.

Well-being strategies for families #

Here are some ways to promote well-being as a family:

• Create a family plan: Discuss emergency preparedness plans for natural disasters. Being prepared can reduce anxiety for everyone.
• Share small victories: Celebrate eco-friendly actions your family takes, like reducing energy use around your home or planting a garden.
• Encourage open dialogue: Regularly check in with family members to share feelings about climate concerns and discuss ways to support each other.

By addressing climate anxiety and fostering resilience, you can create a healthier path forward—both for ourselves and the planet.ere for you. Text CONNECT to 741741 any time to reach a live volunteer who can support you.

Additional Resources #

Explore these organizations for guidance related to climate anxiety:

• Good Grief Network: Offers a 10-step program to process eco-anxiety and build resilience. 
• Climate Psychology Alliance: Provides support and resources for navigating climate-related distress. 
• Mental Health and Climate Change Alliance: A network addressing the intersection of climate change and mental health. 

For immediate emotional support, text CONNECT to 741741 to chat with a trained volunteer Crisis Counselor at any time.