Climate Anxiety: How to Cope When Environmental Worry Feels Overwhelming
Between extreme weather events, wildfires, and constant news coverage, it's no surprise that many people feel anxious about climate change. Here in Georgia, we've experienced our share of severe storms and unpredictable weather patterns. If you find yourself worrying about the planet's future, you're experiencing what mental health professionals call climate anxiety or eco-anxiety.
What Is Climate Anxiety?
Climate anxiety refers to heightened emotional, mental, or physical distress in response to climate change. It's not a formal mental health diagnosis, but its effects are real and widespread. A 2021 survey found that over 45% of young people said climate change negatively affects their daily functioning, and 68% of adults report experiencing at least some eco-anxiety.
Common symptoms include panic attacks, loss of appetite, irritability, insomnia, and feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or anger about environmental issues.
Climate Anxiety vs. Anxiety Disorders
Feeling concerned about the environment is actually healthy—it means you care about the world. However, if these concerns consume your thoughts, prevent you from functioning normally, or persist even when you're not actively reading about climate issues, you may benefit from professional support.
6 Strategies for Managing Climate Anxiety
1. Take Meaningful Action: Focus on changes you can make locally. In Gwinnett County, you might support community gardens, participate in local clean-up efforts at Yellow River Park, or advocate for sustainable practices.
2. Connect with Like-Minded People: Find community among others who share your concerns. Atlanta has numerous environmental groups and support networks where you can feel understood.
3. Limit Doom-Scrolling: Stay informed, but set boundaries on climate news consumption. Seek out positive environmental stories for balance.
4. Practice Self-Compassion: You can't solve climate change alone. Acknowledge your feelings without judgment.
5. Get Moving Outdoors: Exercise in nature serves double duty—it reduces anxiety while connecting you with the environment you care about. Try Gwinnett County's extensive trail system.
6. Seek Professional Help: If climate anxiety is significantly impacting your life, a mental health professional can provide coping strategies tailored to your needs.
Support for All Types of Anxiety
At Next Step Psychiatry, we understand that anxiety takes many forms. Dr. Aneel Ursani and Fathima Chowdhury PA-C help patients throughout Lilburn and metro Atlanta manage anxiety—whatever its source.
Call us: 678-437-1659
4145 Lawrenceville Hwy STE 100, Lilburn, GA 30047