In today’s rapidly changing climate landscape, a multitude of emotions are palpable, with young people feeling particularly vulnerable. The anticipatory stress regarding the planet’s future has led to pervasive feelings of anxiety, grief, anger, and helplessness. Such climate-related stressors are interfering with daily life, causing sleeplessness and difficulty in concentration. Many youths are grappling with the ethical implications of bringing children into an uncertain world, mourning the potential loss of the natural environment.
Efforts by activists, climate psychologists, and environmental advocates are shining a light on ways to cultivate resilience and manage these challenging emotions, providing solace and actionable steps to combat climate-related anxiety.
For instance, connecting with community members who share similar concerns offers a sense of solidarity and purpose. Laura Robinson, a climate psychologist in Michigan, suggests joining local environmental projects that advocate for biodiversity, conservation efforts, and wildlife protection as a powerful antidote to isolation. Her clients, across various ages, are consistently seeking ways to manage their emotions, not just for personal relief but also for the future of their families.
In navigating today’s relentless stream of distressing news, the concept of a “positivity sandwich” serves as a buffer. This practice involves beginning and ending one’s news consumption with positive stories while allowing space for more difficult reports in the middle. It’s a strategy to handle the intensity of modern media, dominated by smartphones and social platforms. Scheduled breaks from such platforms are equally recommended to maintain mental health amidst the barrage of information.
Highlighting sustainable living practices provides a teaching moment for future generations. Phoebe Yu, based in Fremont, California, exemplifies this through her life choices, which reflect a dedication to environmental concerns. From driving an electric vehicle to maintaining a vegetarian household, Yu balances optimism about the future with concerns about the environmental legacy for her young son. Through everyday actions, she instills in him a sense of responsibility towards the planet.
Britnee Reid, a middle school science educator, actively engages her students in discussions around climate impacts, helping them manage their climate-related emotions by encouraging activism and awareness. By leveraging resources from climate-focused educational organizations, she provides her students with tools to document and discuss their engagement with the environment. These exercises promote fruitful dialogue, revealing how students, despite anxiety, are inspired to effect change.
Patricia Hasbach, a psychotherapist near Eugene, Oregon, integrates nature into her therapeutic practices, emphasizing a connection with the natural world as a means of emotional healing. She advocates for open communication about climate anxieties, fostering resilience by encouraging people to express their concerns. Studies reveal a significant percentage of young people are worried about climate change, yet many feel isolated in their concerns, which can lead to inaction.
Offering a broader perspective on collective impact, climate scientist Kate Marvel encourages individuals to see themselves as part of a united force against environmental issues. Acknowledging the substantial impact of collective human actions, Marvel invites a redefining of personal power, recognizing that significant change is possible when viewed through a communal lens. Through these varied approaches, both young and older generations are empowered to confront climate challenges with a sense of agency and hope.