Eco-anxiety and Positive Psychology

Eco-anxiety is a term used to describe the feelings of anxiety, worry, and stress related to environmental issues and concerns about the state of the planet, including climate change, loss of biodiversity, pollution, and natural disasters. It encompasses a range of emotional responses, from mild unease to overwhelming fear, often stemming from a sense of helplessness regarding the future of the environment and humanity's impact on it.

Addressing ecoanxiety using principles from positive psychology involves fostering resilience, well-being, and proactive engagement. But, how do we apply them?

1. Examine the positive developments in environmental science, renewable energy, conservation efforts, and community initiatives. Seek out stories of success and progress. Use visualization techniques to imagine a thriving, sustainable world, which can foster hope and motivation.

2. Mindfulness techniques (like meditation and deep-breathing exercises) can help you stay present and manage overwhelming emotions related to ecoanxiety. In positive psychology, emodiversity recognizes that there is a range of emotions we will experience over our life course, including happiness, sadness, joy, despair, and everything in between.

3. Participate in local environmental groups or initiatives, which can foster a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Working with others can mitigate feelings of isolation and helplessness, and social ties can be strengthened by discussing ecoanxiety with friends or family, which can validate feelings and provide emotional support.

4. Think about what individual and collective actions that contribute to environmental sustainability you, and others, can take. This can include small lifestyle changes, advocacy, or volunteering, which can restore a sense of agency, help you feel more in control and less helpless. Setting realistic, achievable environmental goals can lead to a sense of accomplishment and progress.

5. Practice gratitude for the natural world and appreciate the beauty and resilience of the environment, which can counterbalance feelings of despair. Take part in activities that connect you with nature, such as hiking, gardening, or environmental art. These experiences can boost mood and increase environmental appreciation.

6. Reflect on your values and how they align with environmental stewardship. Finding purpose in advocating for the environment can significantly reduce ecoanxiety. Share narratives and case studies of communities or individuals who have successfully made a positive impact on the environment, which can inspire others to take action.

~Kate