2 Eco-anxiety

SPEAKER:

Whilst being aware of environmental issues helps our connectedness with the natural world, it can also be worrying. Public awareness of climate change and loss of biodiversity is increasing, which is positive. But people can be unsure about how to address their concerns. Such worries, which are referred to as eco-anxiety, can affect our wellbeing, but they can also help us take action.

Environmental issues may appear too big to tackle leading to anxiety. People may choose to ignore these issues to protect their wellbeing. So before we can act, we need to overcome these fears. Eco-anxiety is something that can be helped by using simple psychological and practical approaches. Spending time in nature fosters an appreciation of our environment and can help regulate our emotions.

Talking and spending time with like-minded people can bring a sense of togetherness. Learning about nature can maintain our curiosity about the natural world. Undertaking positive actions can ease our sense of helplessness and powerlessness in the face of environmental issues.

Eco-anxiety can be a force for inaction, but the evolutionary purpose of emotions, such as anxiety, is to mobilise our resources to act. A recognition of our own vulnerabilities provides the possibility of action for change.