Over half of people ages 16 to 25 report feeling very worried about global warming, and their fears aren’t unfounded. Climate change is already having negative effects on the environment and society at large, such as increasing the frequency and intensity of natural disasters. It’s understandable that many young adults have eco-anxiety, but this maladaptive response robs them of happiness. If you want to conquer your fear of climate change so you can enjoy a higher quality of life, here are 7 ways to overcome it.
1. Avoid Doomscrolling
People often doomscroll because they’re afraid of bad things happening in the future. Reading negative news gives them an illusion of control. By being informed, they believe they can better prepare for whatever’s coming. However, doomscrolling can actually be counterintuitive if your goal is to be climate-resilient.
Consuming fear-inducing content constantly can make us more anxious and depressed. When we get bogged down in negative feelings, it’s harder to be productive and engage in climate change advocacy and mitigation efforts. So it’s important to resist the urge to doomscroll if you want to conquer your eco-anxiety and help slow global warming.
2. Get Involved
Getting involved in climate change advocacy is a healthier way to deal with eco-anxiety than doomscrolling. Working to improve the planet in big and small ways will help restore your hope for the future. Volunteering to clean up trash or attending a climate march will help you feel more connected to the planet and the people around you.
Over time, your efforts will add up and have a positive effect on your local community and ecosystem. Seeing the forward progress you’re contributing to will be better for your mental health and the planet than doomscrolling in your room.
3. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Another healthy way to cope with eco-anxiety is to make tweaks to your lifestyle that align with your values. Taking steps toward sustainability can help restore your sense of agency and ease your climate worries. Try to reduce your carbon footprint by starting a compost bin or carpooling with coworkers. As your budget allows, consider investing in reusable items like glass containers and metal straws. Shopping at zero-waste stores and eating less meat can also help you go green.
4. Don’t Run From Your Feelings
Some people are afraid that global warming will cause the food supply to decrease and make certain areas unsafe to live in. To cope with their anxiety, they’re relocating to areas with different weather, starting homesteads, and stocking up on rice and beans. But trying to outrun your fears probably isn’t the best way to cope with eco-anxiety.
Your anxiety will follow you wherever you go unless you choose to deal with it. Instead of ignoring your feelings by feverishly prepping, consider confronting and sorting out your emotions instead. Journaling is a great way to process and externalize your thoughts. Putting your worries on paper can help you get some distance from them and analyze them more logically, allowing you to gain a new perspective.
5. Seek Out Resources and Support
Seeking out support can help you deal with your climate anxiety instead of running from it. If you have the funds, consider making an appointment with a mental health professional to work through your eco-anxiety. However, there are free resources available if you’re on a budget. Attending a climate anxiety support group will allow you to share your worries in a safe space and receive emotional validation and guidance.
There are also podcasts and newsletters that give subscribers advice about how to handle climate fears, such as Gen Dread. Additionally, sharing your worries with understanding family members or friends may be helpful. Sometimes simply venting and getting your fears off your chest can make you feel better.
6. Enjoy Nature
Most people who develop eco-anxiety have a strong love of nature. After all, you wouldn’t be worried about the climate if you didn’t care deeply about the Earth and all of its inhabitants. Although you may be starting to notice and feel the effects of climate change, there’s still an abundance of natural beauty around you.
You shouldn’t let your worries about the future stop you from enjoying the simple pleasures nature offers, such as fresh air and sunshine. Taking a mindful walk outside and grounding yourself in the present moment can help relieve some of your stress. Stopping to smell the roses and admire the trees will help infuse your life with joy.
Enjoy Life Despite Climate Change
Reading and thinking about climate change projections can be anxiety-inducing. However, it’s still possible to enjoy life despite the presence of global warming. Coping with your anxiety in healthy ways like journaling and volunteering can reduce your stress levels and give you a boost of optimism.
You can make a difference and contribute to climate change mitigation without letting your fears rule your mind or life. Remember to make time for the things that bring you joy, such as family, friends, and nature walks. At the end of the day, you’ll be able to make a bigger positive impact if you’re happy and healthy rather than anxious and stressed.