Managing Climate Anxiety.

Climate change has become a more and more prevalent topic in recent years, months, and days. We're bombarded with news about wildfires burning thousands of acres, hurricanes wiping out towns, and heatwaves killing people. Climate change is here and it's terrifying.

When thinking about the environment, we're riddled with anxiety; questioning what our future will look like, and wondering how to prepare - or if it's even worth it. It can leave us feeling nihilistic, stressed, or depressed. Or, it can seem so overwhelming and hard to face, that we simply ignore it altogether - continuing on in ignorant bliss.

When I first started learning more about the planet and the shape she's in, I felt stressed and hopeless. Two feelings on opposite sides of a spectrum. I constantly questioned if I wanted to bring children into a world that is dying, I felt guilty any time I bought something that contained plastic or ate something that wasn't a plant. Clearly, this wasn't a healthy way to live.

This is climate anxiety (also known as eco-distress or eco-anxiety). The American Psychological Association defined it as "a chronic fear of environmental doom." In less terrifying terms, climate anxiety is experienced by people who are worried about the future of the planet due to the climate crisis.

So, how do we cope with the scary reality that is climate change?

Speak up.

Find people who are in the same boat as you, it can alleviate some pressure and help to share your concerns with others. Finding your voice can also lead to action. Climate change can make us feel powerless, but by taking action, we're focusing on what we can control and doing something to positively impact the planet. Look up protests, join a clean-up crew, encourage loved ones to reduce waste, and practice sustainable habits. Spread the message.

Tune out.

The news is depressing. It seems like there isn't a lot of positive change happening. All you hear about is water shortages, fires, storms, and continuous usage of toxic resources that can lead to oil spills in oceans. By seeking out more positive information and staying away from the news, you won't focus so much on the negative. From Ecosia's blog, "remember that terrifying headlines are used to sell newspapers."

Educate yourself.

A big part of climate anxiety is a lack of control. It's a global crisis and you're but one person. By educating yourself, you take back some of that control and are able to calm some worries rather than fearing the unknown. Check out my new book Earth Me Up or my eco-friendly Instagram @earth_me_up to learn more about the issues and what you can do to reduce your impact and help Momma Nature.

Make some changes.

Once you know more about the causes of climate change, do your part to make a positive impact. Make some small changes (ex: cut out meat one day a week, or go full vegan). Absorb yourself in a task that helps make a difference and encourage others to follow your lead.

Don't blame yourself.

It's easy to look at everything you do and realize it somehow impacts the environment. Part of the whole "existing" gig is using resources. But you aren't responsible for this crisis. "the narrative around the climate crisis puts a lot of responsibility on the individual. Each of us can have a huge personal impact, but we need to keep up pressure on the governments and big industries responsible for the crisis. Those in power have ignored warnings from scientists in favor of their own interests. Try to treat those who aren't as active as you are with compassion. Direct your attention towards the establishment instead." (Ecosia)

Talk to a professional.

Climate is a big thing. And it's a scary thing. It's okay to seek help from an expert in this fickle life.

Quick word on hope from Ecosia:

"Those who uphold the status quo have failed the planet. There are so many young people engaging in climate politics, and this shift will only intensify when the thousands of school-age kids currently striking for the planet enter the workplace and start voting. Change is coming."