I have had more and more people come into the clinic and express their anxiety, hopelessness and fear over the Earth’s temperature rises and global conflicts. As the Earth’s temperature rises and climate-related crises become more evident, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and anxious about the future. Coping with world uncertainty, such as conflicts and wars, alongside the reality of environmental global warming and its repercussions can create a sense of overwhelming distress. In this blog, we’ll explore some psychologically sound strategies to help you navigate through these challenging times and play your part in creating a more sustainable and resilient world.
Acknowledge the Reality:
The first step in coping with any crisis is to acknowledge its reality. Global warming and conflicts are real and urgent issue affecting our planet. Denying its existence or downplaying its severity only prolongs the problem. Instead, accept the truth and recognise your emotions surrounding these issues. Fear, anger, or sadness are normal reactions, but confronting them empowers you to take action.
Limit Exposure to Distressing News:
In today’s digital age, access to news about global conflicts and environmental crises is at our fingertips 24/7. While it’s important to stay informed, constant exposure to distressing news can lead to heightened anxiety and feelings of powerlessness. Set boundaries on your news consumption and choose reliable sources that provide accurate information without sensationalism. Allowing yourself designated “news-free” periods can give your mind the space it needs to process and cope effectively.
Practice Eco-Anxiety Management:
Eco-anxiety is the feeling of distress caused by environmental concerns and climate change. While it’s natural to feel anxious about the future, it’s crucial to manage these emotions constructively. Engaging in mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help reduce stress and bring focus to the present moment. Remember, chanelling anxiety into positive actions is more productive than being paralysed by it. Furthermore, being ‘stuck’ in thoughts and fears about global events out of our control really doesn’t help anyone. In fact, all it does do is rob you of the opportunity to live life, see clearly and connect with values and action.
Seek Social Support:
You’re not alone in your worries about global warming and conflicts. Engage with like-minded individuals, friends, or family who share your concerns. Connecting with others who understand your perspective can be reassuring and motivational. Join local or online climate action groups to collaborate on sustainable initiatives, share ideas, and find solace in a community working towards a common goal.
Empower through Education:
Knowledge is power. Educate yourself about the causes and consequences of global warming and the steps being taken to combat it. Understanding the science and the efforts underway can alleviate feelings of helplessness. Stay updated through reliable sources and reputable research organizations, allowing you to make informed decisions and contribute to meaningful change.
Engage in Action:
When confronted with world uncertainty, taking action can be a powerful coping mechanism. Engaging in activism for causes you believe in can provide a sense of purpose and agency. Whether it’s participating in peaceful protests, supporting humanitarian organisations, volunteering for a clean up your beach day, or advocating for peace, your efforts can contribute to positive change and give you a renewed sense of hope.
Embrace Compassion and Empathy:
Amidst global conflicts and environmental crises, it’s essential to cultivate compassion and empathy towards others who are affected. Recognize that people around the world might be experiencing trauma and hardships due to war and natural disasters. Practicing empathy not only helps you connect with others but also strengthens your own resilience and coping abilities.
Focus on Local Impact:
While global conflicts and environmental challenges may seem beyond our control, focusing on the impact we can make locally can be empowering. Participate in community projects, volunteer for humanitarian causes, or support local environmental initiatives. Contributing to positive change on a smaller scale can ripple outward, inspiring others to do the same and fostering a sense of solidarity in uncertain times.
Seek Professional Support:
If feelings of distress and uncertainty become overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. Talking to a psychologist can provide you with coping strategies tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Psychologists can also help you connect with your values, offer a safe space for processing emotions, develop resilience, and take committed action in the face of uncertainty.
If you want to make a time to speak with one of our Psychologists, click HERE – you can either complete a booking enquiry form, register for our booking portal to see which Psychologist has availability, or email us directly EMAIL
Coping with environmental global warming and crisis requires a multidimensional approach that encompasses psychological well-being, knowledge, and sustainable action. By acknowledging the reality of the challenges we face, practicing eco-anxiety management, seeking support, empowering ourselves through education, and taking sustainable actions, we can work towards a more resilient and sustainable future.
Remember, you are part of the solution, and together, we can make a positive impact on our planet’s health and well-being.
Karen Stevens
Principal Psychologist
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