How to Combat Eco-Anxiety!
April is not just known as Earth Month; it is recognized as Stress Month too. Together, the adversities of the environment and constant stress have caused some people to experience eco-anxiety. Chronic anxiety and stress are notorious for causing ample negative effects on our overall health, particularly our mental and physical health. It has led to depression, insomnia, headaches, and other symptoms. It can weaken our immune system and make us more susceptible to colds and illnesses. Prolonged stress can cause burnout, which has led to a loss of motivation and a decline in performance. It can also strain relationships, be the source of a lack of self-care, and lead to social isolation. However, there are some things that we all can do to help address, cope with, or fix these ways of feeling.
What is eco-anxiety?
Eco anxiety, which is also known as climate anxiety, is a term that is utilized to describe the feelings of distress, fear, and helplessness that arise in response to environmental challenges facing the planet. These challenges include climate change, deforestation, pollution, and other forms of environmental degradation.
People may experience eco-anxiety in different ways, ranging from mild concerns to severe anxiety and depression. Some may feel overwhelmed by the scale of the environmental problems and the seeming lack of action to address the endless list of issues that are destroying our planet. So many people want to do more, but don’t know how, and others don’t have the bandwidth and the money or power to do so. Then there are those who may feel guilty about their actions and their impact on the environment.
Ways to Combat Eco-Anxiety
There is an array of strategies that can be implemented to help people cope with or elevate eco-anxiety:
· One approach is to be more hands on in the environmental movement via one’s actions. This can be done by reducing one's carbon footprint or volunteering for environmental causes that are making changes in our communities. This action can help give individuals a sense of control and purpose and reduce feelings of helplessness.
· Another approach is to seek support from others, whether through talking with friends, family, a coach or seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor. It may be helpful to connect with others who share similar concerns and to engage in discussions and activities that promote positive change.
· Practicing mindfulness and self-care can also help manage eco-anxiety. This may involve taking a moment to connect with nature, becoming more conscious, engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, or engaging in activities that promote a sense of well-being. You can do these activities alone or invite others to share along in the experience with you.
Ultimately, addressing eco-anxiety requires a multi-faceted approach that includes individual action, community engagement, and systemic change. By taking the necessary steps to address environmental challenges, we can not only help to reduce eco-anxiety but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for everyone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as we take a moment to enjoy Earth Month, we must not lose sight of it being Stress Month too. We also need to be cognizant of those who may suffer from a depressive state. These people may need help with finding their way forward. They may not be saying anything out loud, but their actions are showing their state of mind. By recognizing the signs, we may be of assistance. Overall, anxiety and stress can be daunting; it is therefore, imperative to learn to manage them effectively to maintain a healthy and balanced life. Seeking professional help is recommended if anxiety and stress are continuous and become overwhelming or interfere with everyday functions.
Pondering Questions
1. Have you or someone you know ever suffered from eco-anxiety? If yes, how did you feel or act differently? How did you cope?
2. Are you willing or have you done something this month to change some of your old habits that may have had a negative impact on the earth?