Hotter temperatures, drought, food scarcity, loss of species, poverty & displacement, and health risks are all effects of climate change that significantly impact our environment, physical lives, societal well-being, and mental health. One manifestation of climate change’s impact on mental health is climate anxiety. Mainstream media, scientific reports, and personal experiences with climate change, which are prevalent in Africa, have highlighted the impacts of climate change.
These sources have increased awareness among individuals and communities about the risks of climate change, with 70% of African youths expressing concern. Awareness is particularly high among those with higher education, with 81% of postsecondary-educated Africans recognizing the effects of climate change. This heightened awareness has led to uncertainty and feelings of worry, fear, and helplessness, known as climate anxiety. Climate anxiety, also referred to as eco-anxiety or climate change anxiety, is a psychological response to the growing recognition of the severe and potentially irreversible damage being inflicted on the planet, affecting both mental and physical well-being.
Individuals experiencing climate anxiety often feel sadness, anger, fear, and grief over environmental destruction and the anticipated consequences of climate change. They may struggle with a sense of hopelessness and helplessness, feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of the problem and powerless to effect change. Constant thoughts about climate change and its impacts on future generations can make it difficult to concentrate on other aspects of life. This anxiety can affect daily activities, disrupt sleep patterns, and impact social interactions, sometimes leading to avoidance behaviors or a sense of resignation.
Climate anxiety is particularly prevalent among younger people, who often feel a strong sense of urgency and responsibility for the future. However, it can affect individuals of all ages and backgrounds but then there are means by which we can cope with climate anxiety, some of which are:
Education and Advocacy: Becoming informed about climate change and engaging in activism or advocacy can provide a sense of purpose and control.
Community Engagement: Joining groups or communities focused on climate action can offer social support and collective empowerment.
Mental Health Support: Seeking therapy or counseling to address anxiety and develop healthy coping strategies. Ecotherapy or climate aware therapy has been found to be of help to those who experience eco-grief, eco-anxiety, eco-distress etc.
Sustainable Practices: Adopting sustainable lifestyle choices, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting renewable energy, can provide a sense of personal contribution to the solution.
Specific Climate Action: Taking a specific interest and action in any sector be it energy, diet, local transport, biodiversity etc. could help relieve the feeling of guilt and shame.
Environmental Activism, a Cause & Coping Mechanism of Climate Anxiety.
Environmental activism serves as both a cause and a coping mechanism for climate anxiety. While engaging in activism can help individuals manage the anger, guilt, hopelessness, and helplessness associated with climate anxiety, it can also be a significant source of anxiety. The pressure to take action and the frustration over perceived inaction by governments and corporations can intensify these feelings. Often, activists, climate action advocates, and stakeholders can identify solutions to climate change effects. However, inaction due to bureaucratic red tape, ineffective and nonexistent policies, lack of financial support, corruption, and negligence by higher authorities and the government can intensify anxiety.
Concerns about the current and future state of the environment are valid, as climate change poses a significant threat to our world. However, we can view our anxiety and concerns as an invitation to address climate change through individual or collective action. By seizing this opportunity, we can make a difference. While climate anxiety emphasizes the urgency for climate action, it also highlights the importance of psychological support and community resilience in facing environmental challenges.
