If you are anxious about the future of our planet, you are not alone.
Data from Google Trends has shown that search queries related to “climate anxiety” soared 27 times higher in the first 10 months of 2023 than in 2017.
But what exactly is climate anxiety?
What is Climate Anxiety?
Climate anxiety, also referred to as solastalgia and ecological grief, describes a sense of worry, grief, and stress about the effects of climate change and the future of the planet.
Climate anxiety is not officially recognised as a mental health disorder and has no guidelines for clinical diagnosis or treatment, but individuals who are experiencing distress related to climate change are encouraged to seek support from mental health professionals to address their concerns and help them develop coping strategies.
Climate Anxiety Among Young People
In 2021, a group of psychologists, environmental scientists, and psychiatrists conducted research, surveying 10,000 individuals aged 16 to 25 about climate change. 75% of the respondents expressed fear about the future. Almost half of the respondents stated that their thoughts and emotions about climate change had adverse impacts on their day-to-day functioning, such as their ability to concentrate, work, sleep, eat, and nurture relationships.
Signs of Climate Anxiety
Having feelings of anger or disappointment towards people who don’t recognise climate change is one way climate anxiety can manifest.
Other signs of climate anxiety might include:
- Feelings of guilt or shame related to your own carbon footprint (total amount of greenhouse gas)
- Sadness due to the loss of natural environments or wildlife populations
- Having obsessive thoughts about climate change
- You are experiencing panic attacks.
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep and appetite issues
Social Groups Facing High Risks of Climate Anxiety
Anyone aware of climate change and its negative effects may experience climate anxiety. However, some social groups may be at higher risk of anxiety about environmental issues.
- Adolescents and adults
- Indigenous peoples
- Displaced communities
- People with pre-existing mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression
- People who have less access to financial, educational, social, and health resources
- First responders to environmental disasters, such as firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical services.
How Can Businesses Tackle Climate Anxiety?
Encourage employees to focus only on things they can control
Climate change is a collective problem that requires collective action. It is a complex concern that cannot be solved by one person, organisation, or government on their own. Thus, it is important to encourage your employees to focus their attention only on what is within their control. Here are some examples of the actions that employees and your whole organisation can take:
- Participate in climate movements and health promotion campaigns.
- Promote sustainability through recycling, smart energy use, and water conservation.
- Invest in green energy
- Offer food options in the cafeteria with less environmental impact.
- Donate to charities.
Establish Clear Sustainability Goals
When employees see their company taking proactive steps to address environmental issues, they feel reassured that they are part of a responsible and conscientious organisation. By knowing that the company they work with is committed to sustainability goals, employees are less likely to experience climate anxiety and instead feel motivated to contribute positively to environmental initiatives.
You can save the world, but you can’t do it alone. By adopting environmentally friendly strategies, advocating for campaigns that prioritise climate stewardship, and working together as a community, our small actions can make a huge difference.