understanding anxiety about climate change

You might feel like there’s nothing you can do to make a difference, but every little bit helps.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, taking action can help you feel more in control and help things seem more manageable. It also has the added bonus of helping you live a more environmentally friendly life.

There are many things you can do – you're probably doing some of these already. You could:

• take your own bags to the shops
• use public transport, ride a bike, walk or car-pool
• eat more sustainably (e.g., eat less meat)
• learn whether companies you support are helping or hindering the environment (e.g., discover if your bank or super fund invest in fossil fuels)
• be mindful about the products you use, where they come from and where they are going after you use them (e.g., shop local and seasonally or buy second-hand)
• stay connected to the good news. There are many dedicated people working on the issue of climate change. Focusing on the positives can help give your head a break and give you some hope.  

You can also get involved, get your voice heard, or find people who share your beliefs and values.

• talk to your friends, family or community and see if there’s something you can do together. Check out The David Suzuki Foundation’s guide on how to have conversations about climate change
• contact your local government agency and see what they’re doing
• volunteer at an environmental organisation or join a community group
• find out what your workplace, uni, school or TAFE are doing for the environment
• write to your local politician and ask them to take action. Climate for Change has some great templates you can use.

The Australian Conservation Foundation has put together a handy guide on how to go about getting involved.

And remember to celebrate your wins both big and small!

On the flip side, it’s also a good idea to take a break from thinking about climate change. This doesn’t mean ignoring the issue; it’s a good way to help prevent feeling overwhelmed. Breaks can help keep you mentally and physically strong so you can keep doing the things that are important to you.

Turn off your news feed and google alerts and do something nice for yourself.

Looking after yourself is important, especially if you’re having a tough time. It’s OK not to feel OK –acknowledge you’re having a difficult time and be kind to yourself.

We all cope with challenges in different ways. It can be helpful to think about how well your current coping strategies work for you.

Learning skills for tough times can help. These are things like understanding your thoughts and feelings and how they can impact on you. When times are tough, you could try journalling, relaxation exercises, listening to music or going for a walk in nature. Being outdoors can also help you develop your own positive relationship with nature.  

Building skills can be hard, but it gets better with practise. Start with something easy, keep an open mind, and find out what works for you.

And don’t forget the basics: keep doing the things you enjoy; connect with your family, friends and your community; get a good night’s sleep; limit your use of alcohol and other drugs; and stay active.

Letting others know what’s going on might be challenging, but it can help you feel understood, more connected and it can be the beginning of a great support network. Reach out to trusted family members, friends, teachers, Elders or your community and share what’s on your mind.

Having concerns about climate change is normal. However, signs you might need some extra support include withdrawing from family, friends and your usual activities, losing interest in work or study, feeling flat or sad, constant worry about the environment or that you’re not doing enough, changes in sleeping or eating, low motivation, or increases in alcohol and other drug use.

If these last for a period of time, you are experiencing a number of them or you’re worried about how they’re affecting you, it’s a good idea to get some extra support.