Understanding Climate Anxiety: What It Is and How to Cope
Adapted from original article contributed by Audra Stewart-Gordon, Community Health and Communications Coordinator
Have you been hearing the term "climate anxiety" lately? Are you curious as to what it means?
Climate anxiety isn't a formal medical diagnosis, but it's quickly becoming a widely recognized term. It describes a growing collection of symptoms that arise from the ongoing changes in our environment, such as shifts in temperature and weather patterns. People experiencing climate anxiety often feel a chronic, overwhelming fear of environmental catastrophe. This fear can be paralyzing and debilitating, especially for those who already struggle with anxiety disorders.
But what is driving this surge in climate-related anxiety? Several factors contribute to the growing sense of fear and uncertainty surrounding climate change:
Increased Frequency of Extreme Weather Events
One of the most immediate and tangible effects of climate change is the rise in extreme weather events. Hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe. The unpredictability and destructive power of these events can leave people feeling vulnerable and anxious. When communities face repeated natural disasters, the stress and trauma can accumulate, leading to heightened anxiety about what might come next.
Visible Environmental Changes
People are witnessing dramatic changes in the environment around them, such as melting glaciers, shrinking polar ice caps, and rising sea levels. These changes are often visible and stark, serving as constant reminders that the planet is undergoing significant shifts. For many, these changes bring about a sense of loss—of natural beauty, biodiversity, and the stability of ecosystems. This sense of loss can fuel anxiety, as it becomes clear that these changes are not just distant threats but are happening now, in real-time.
Media Coverage and Social Media Amplification
The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception of climate change. Continuous coverage of climate-related disasters, environmental degradation, and scientific reports can create a sense of urgency and dread. Social media further amplifies this by rapidly spreading news, images, and stories related to climate change. While this can raise awareness, it can also lead to an overwhelming amount of information that intensifies feelings of fear and helplessness.
Uncertainty About the Future
One of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of climate change is the uncertainty it brings. People worry about what the future holds for themselves, their families, and future generations. Will the world be able to mitigate the worst effects of climate change? What will life look like in 20, 50, or 100 years? This uncertainty can lead to a sense of powerlessness, as individuals grapple with the enormity of the problem and the limited control they have over global outcomes.
Moral and Ethical Concerns
Many people feel a deep moral responsibility to protect the planet for future generations. The knowledge that human activities are contributing to environmental destruction can create feelings of guilt, shame, and despair. These emotions can be particularly intense for those who are passionate about environmental issues or who work in fields related to conservation and sustainability. The perceived lack of sufficient global action can further contribute to feelings of frustration and helplessness.
Impact on Livelihoods and Communities
For many, climate change is not just an abstract concept but a reality that impacts our daily lives. Right here in Downeast Maine, farmers and growers are facing multiple challenges due to changing weather patterns. Our coastal communities and industries are threatened by rising sea levels. People’s homes, businesses, and property have been damaged by or lost to flooding. The economic and social disruptions caused by these changes can lead to heightened anxiety, as individuals and communities struggle to adapt to new realities.
Impact on Mental Health
The psychological toll of climate change is increasingly being recognized. The constant exposure to negative news, coupled with personal experiences of environmental degradation, can exacerbate existing mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. For some, the fear of environmental collapse can lead to eco-paralysis—a state where the anxiety is so overwhelming that it becomes difficult to take action or make decisions.
Coping with Climate Anxiety
In response to this growing concern, a disaster recovery program has been launched through a collaboration between StrengthenME and Healthy Acadia. This initiative is designed to support residents of Hancock and Washington counties by providing community outreach and access to mental health resources.
StrengthenME is a statewide program dedicated to helping people recover and rebuild their lives after disasters—like the severe storms of last December and January. Beyond disaster recovery, StrengthenME also addresses the emotional toll of climate anxiety, offering free and anonymous support to those in need. Whether you're looking for outreach, support, or a connection to resources and services, this program is here to help.
If you're struggling with climate anxiety or need support, visit StrengthenME to learn more and get connected to the help you need, free of charge.