Dealing With Climate Related Worries and Anxiety in A Constructive and Positive Way
Our world and environment is changing, and we are all learning how to adjust and adapt. Each year, we see the effects of climate change, but by working together, we can find solutions and reduce the impact. It’s important to recognise the challenges, but we also need to stay hopeful and focus on what we can do.
There’s a lot of misinformation and negativity out there, which can make people feel anxious and overwhelmed. Instead of letting fear take over, we can look for reliable and scientifically backed information, support environment friendly actions, and take care of our mental wellbeing while playing a part in protecting our natural world.
In April we focus on our Climate Emergency Response Plan’s theme of Adaptation, meaning this month we dive into how climate change is impacting our earth and how we can adapt and, in some instances, mitigate these impacts, which include storms, wildfires, floodings and other disasters that are distressing. Adaptations aren’t just about the physical changes and preventative measures we establish. The impacts of the natural disasters also affect us mentally, and in many cases cause anxiety. Knowing how to manage this and where to get support from is becoming more important as we continue to face more extreme weather, rising temperatures, and unexpected environmental changes.
This year, we have already faced more intense windstorms, increased risk of wildfires, and fluctuating temperatures – and this is just in the United Kingdom. With this being said, it is no wonder that climate anxiety is a growing issue. However, there are ways so we can manage this and there are resources and support for anyone facing climate related anxiety.
What is climate anxiety?
Climate anxiety is when we may feel stressed or fearful because of the climate emergency, which is a significant concern across the world.
In 2022, the Office for National Statistics found in a survey that 62% of people over the age of 16 in the UK are worried about the rising temperatures. 70% were between the ages of 16 to 29, and 59% of 50 to 69 year olds.
Another study by The Lancet in 2021 surveyed 10,000 young people across 10 countries, aged between 16-25. The study showed that 59% were seriously concerned about climate change, and 84% being moderately worried.
The statistics show us how the climate crisis is affecting mental health wellbeing, and that concern for our environment is growing (and rightfully so). It is easy to fall down the rabbit-hole of horror stories and misinformation and it can quickly send your mind running wild. So how can this be managed?
Managing Climate Anxiety
Reliable Research: Whilst research can be scary, it also can be a reliable and informative tool. Making sure to know what sources are trustworthy and valid will make a big difference in the way that information is delivered to you factually and scientifically providing clarity and understanding of topics. Untrustworthy sites over dramatize stories, exaggerate statistics, or twist words to create fear and present bogus data and information.
Feel your feelings: It is valid to feel the way you feel about the climate emergency, but by feeling and connecting with your emotions you can set a plan as to how you can make a difference and do your part. Taking control and accountability of what you can realistically do and establish whether and how you can provide support to larger initiatives, can help your mental health.
Celebrate Positive News: Focusing on and sharing positive, reliable, and factual, news can reduce anxiety and show the real difference that is being made to fight climate change and protect our natural environment. There is so much good to focus on that is often overshadowed by negative news and misinformation.
Reducing your climate impact: Energy efficiency can reduce your emissions whilst also reducing your bills – this is great for reducing stress. Take part in local climate action, volunteer for an environment group or cause, find out what difference you can make to reduce any anxiety. By getting involved in local initiatives and groups you can share how you are feeling with likeminded people who probably can empathise with you and understand your concerns surrounding climate change.
Be one with nature: Spending time in nature draws appreciation to our environment and is often the best remedy for any type of mental health challenge we can face. Going on nature walks, cycling, outdoor yoga and meditation, gardening, a visit to the local seaside, are all stress-relieving ways you can enjoy our surrounding environment whilst relaxing your mind.
Support for mental health:
It is important to remember that mental health challenges can come from various sources, not just climate change and we all face them at one point or other in life. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you, or someone you know, are struggling with climate anxiety, or any mental health issues, you can speak to trusted family members, friends, or you can reach out to mental health support organisations and your GP too. There are many resources out there to support mental health wellbeing. A well-known example is Mind a mental health support charity and have plenty resources on their website, which provide information and help with both climate anxiety and general mental health issues.
Learning about climate change and mental health and how they tie together really makes you think about how we can use our environment to take a step back and calm our minds all the while by supporting its preservation. And by focusing on the positive actions we can take; we not only improve our mental health but also contribute to the future of our natural world.
We would love to hear from you.
Share your stories, experiences, and photos of nature, and send us a few lines on how you are helping protect our environment in County Durham. Whether it is something you do personally, a community project you may be involved in, a business change or action, or even a great photo of nature. We want to celebrate and share your efforts and views.
Send us your stories or photos (with a short explanation) by emailing climatecountydurham@durham.gov.uk or by filling in our “Get in Touch form” and help inspire others across our beautiful county to take action.
