In today’s world, many people, especially young people, are feeling anxious about the state of our environment. In 2020 a study released by the American Psychological association showed that 68% of people between ages 18-34 reported feeling “eco- anxiety”. Almost half of those over the age of 50 felt the same worries.
It is important to understand what eco anxiety is, why it happens, and what we can do to alleviate it.
What is Eco-Anxiety?
Eco-anxiety is a term used to describe the worries and fears that people experience when thinking about the health of our planet. It is normal, and important, to care about the environment and feel concerned about issues such as climate change, pollution, deforestation, and the loss of animal species. However, when these concerns become overwhelming and cause persistent stress and anxiety, it is called eco anxiety.
Why Are So Many People Affected?
Firstly, constant exposure to environmental challenges is a significant reason. We are regularly bombarded with news and information about the environmental challenges we face. We hear about extreme weather events like heat waves, melting ice caps, and the destruction of natural habitats. Here in Northern Ontario, we smell the smoke of burning forest fires, experience road closures to neighbouring communities, and we might fear for the community here in Marathon. These constant reminders can make us feel powerless and anxious about the future.
Secondly, the portrayal of environmental problems as severe and irreversible adds to the anxiety. For example, we often hear that climate change could lead to rising sea levels, potentially flooding coastal areas and displacing millions of people. Such warnings can create a sense of hopelessness and anxiety about what lies ahead.
Lastly, eco-anxiety can stem from a sense of responsibility. We have a planet that is facing numerous environmental issues that impact us all. We might feel a desire, even an obligation to fix these problems, but we might not know where to begin and we might worry about whether we can make a difference.
What Can We Do About Eco-Anxiety?
Fortunately, there are ways to address eco-anxiety and take positive action.
One approach is to make small, sustainable lifestyle changes that can make a big difference. We can reduce our carbon footprint by conserving energy, recycling, and using eco-friendly products. Planting trees and supporting conservation organizations are other ways to actively participate in protecting our environment.
We can join environmental groups and that can provide a sense of community and purpose. Supporting environmental organizations through financial donations that are doing good work and advocating to the government for environmental protection and support for us to adapt to a changing climate can be helpful. We can focus on the positive impact we can make. Action counts, and even small actions can help to ease our anxiety.
Spending time in nature is another effective way to combat eco-anxiety. Research shows that 2 hours per week (or 20 minutes per day on most days) decreases stress hormones and improves a sense of well being. Whether it’s walking on trails, spending time at Pebble Beach, visiting Neys or Pukaskwa, or working in your garden, being in nature is good for your mental health.
Be Prepared: Building an Emergency Kit
Preparing for potential environmental disasters is another effective way to manage eco-anxiety. Having an emergency kit and a grab-and-go bag ready can provide a sense of control during uncertain times.
For your emergency kit, gather non-perishable food and ample water (at least four liters per person per day) for three days to a week. Also include a manual can opener, a first-aid kit, necessary medications for a week, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio and flashlight with extra batteries. Personal items like toiletries, an extra pair of glasses, and copies of important documents should also be packed. Keep some cash in small bills on hand, and add seasonal clothing, sturdy footwear, an emergency blanket, and a whistle.
Being well-prepared with plenty of water and other essentials can give you peace of mind and help reduce the stress associated with environmental concerns.
For more information on preparing an emergency kit, click here.
Conclusion
Eco-anxiety is a phenomenon that has emerged over the past few years. We can manage our anxiety by channelling our worries into positive action, spending time in nature, and joining forces with others. Taking steps like building an emergency kit can also provide a sense of security, helping us feel more in control and less anxious about the future of our planet.
By Dr. Sarah Newbery
