What Is Ecoanxiety And How To Combat It

Ecoanxiety is a fear of the idea of ​​environmental disasters that could endanger society. In turn, this term is linked to negative thoughts about the future as a consequence of the impact that the climate alterations that are generated could have.

Even though ecoanxiety is not included in the DSM-V⁽¹⁾, could be considered a type of anxiety disorder due to the characteristics it employs. Next, we will set out the diagnostic criteria that must be met to establish an accurate diagnosis:

• Excessive worry for at least six months duration.
• Permanent restlessness.
• Irritability.
• Muscle tension.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Deterioration of work, social and family relationships.
• The alterations cannot be explained by the presence of another mental disorder and/or the intake of medications. The symptoms are not linked to a medical condition.

This mental health problem can affect people of all ages, however, there is currently a predominance in groups of adolescents and young adults. Next, we will show you some reasons why this age group may be more affected by ecoanxiety:

• Deidealized perspective of the future: The constant changes that occur at the climate level generate disillusionment about the development of life in the coming years. At the same time, young people perceive great difficulty in living in a peaceful world due to the complexities of today.
• Uncertain future: In relation to the previous point, youth are aware that they will have to live with the consequences of climate change and environmental degradation in the coming decades. Uncertainty about what the world will be like in the future can generate anxiety and fear.
• Parenting modes: Sometimes, family mandates that circulated in the first years of life remain impregnated as models for youth to follow. In this sense, it is possible that some people have grown up with the idea that adulthood is a stage without major inconveniences. For this reason, the contrast presented by environmental disasters is a cause of immense concern.
• Growing awareness: Young people are increasingly exposed to information about the climate crisis and environmental degradation through the media, social networks and educational programs. This heightened awareness can lead to constant worry and anxiety about the future of the planet.
• Sense of responsibility: They may feel that they inherit a damaged world and worry about the negative impact that the actions of previous generations have had and have on the environment, causing feelings of helplessness and guilt.
• Lack of action from the environment: At times, young people may feel that their voices and actions to address the climate crisis are not heard or supported by political leaders and older generations. Consequently, this can increase your anxiety and frustration.

In any case, it is important to recognize that eco-anxiety is a real problem and that addressing the climate crisis and protecting the environment is essential to mitigate these negative effects on youth and society at large.

Given the doubts that may arise about this clinical condition, it becomes necessary to establish some guidelines to detect the presence of this discomfort. Below we will explain some common signs that will help you know if you suffer from ecoanxiety:

• Apathy: Helplessness for the present and hopelessness for the future are conditions that may indicate the presence of ecoanxiety. Here you will find more information about Apathy: meaning, symptoms and how to overcome it.
• Constant concern for the environment: It is possible to experience mood swings when faced with unpleasant news related to climatic aspects. Given this, people may mention that life is meaningless when adversities such as natural disasters occur.
• Behavior and lifestyle modifications: People who suffer from eco-anxiety often make changes in their actions to avoid further damage to the environment.
• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness: Ecoanxiety can make you feel like environmental problems are too big and there is nothing you can do to solve them.
• Avoidance of environmental issues: Even if they are distressed about the environment, people with anxiety may avoid reading the news or participating in conversations about environmental issues so as not to have to face the emotional discomfort associated with this issue.
• Excessive participation in environmental activities: On the contrary, they may also fall into the trap of obsessively participating in environmental activities to relieve that anxiety, something that could have the opposite effect and affect other important areas of your life.

However, it is important to keep in mind that the diagnosis should always be made by a mental health professional who is responsible for evaluating the clinical qualities of each person and outlining specialized treatment.

In cases of ecoanxiety, it is essential that the person feels heard and supported in their efforts to create positive change in relation to the environment. Despite the difficulties that this condition can generate, there are currently some solutions that reduce the intensity of the symptoms of ecoanxiety:

• Seek professional help: When there are no alternatives that allow a remission of eco-anxiety, it is essential to resort to the help of a mental health professional. In short, therapy consists of a space for treating each person’s ailments based on their recognition and the subsequent development of solutions.
• Take stock of situations: Sometimes people with eco-anxiety try to reduce the damage they would cause to the planet by banning actions. For example, avoid driving a car so that the air is clean. In this sense, it is worth reflecting on the need and impact to reduce distress.
• Start a social group: Sharing concerns with other people can provide another type of perspective that helps stop discomfort.
• Carry out an adequate diet: Many times, bad eating habits cause stress levels that are difficult to cope with. For this reason, eating healthy foods helps mitigate certain fears about the environment.
• Consult scientific bibliography: Some data sources provide erroneous information about the planet’s problems. To avoid further confusion, it is necessary to consult articles and internet pages that have scientific support.
• Doing physical activity: Having recreational activities that allow mental relaxation is essential in times of uncertainty. In this sense, physical activity helps reduce stress and combat eco-anxiety.

Likewise, educating and raising awareness in society about how to take concrete measures to protect the planet, as well as ensuring access to mental health services, are also key aspects to address this situation.

This article is merely informative, at PsychologyFor we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.

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