5 Strategies to Cope with Eco-anxiety

Step #1: Social Support

Social support is a great way to reduce stress. Young Individuals dealing with eco-anxiety may be more likely to feel as if they are lacking in support. By increasing social support you can be better able to solve problems, cope with stress, and manage health problems. 

You don’t need to have an army of friends to have adequate levels of social support. Social support can look different depending on the person, but may come in forms such as family members, friends, professionals, neighbours, and co-workers. 

If you feel as if you are lacking in this area it is not too late to create new support systems for yourself. Finding new support systems may require you to take a step outside of your comfort zone. One way that I have had the opportunity to meet new people is by joining a cycling class that meets on the weekends. By joining a club or group that meets regularly you open doors for new and consistent interactions with  people who are likely to have a few of the same interests as you!

Step #2: Get Involved 

Joining an environmental organization is a great way to get involved and meet other individuals who are also interested in contributing to causes that protect our environment. 

Environmental support groups and organizations can include charities, trusts, non-governmental organizations, intergovernmental organizations, and governmental organizations that focus on protecting the environment from human degradation. 

Here are some environmental support groups:

Greenpeace

Environmental Defense Fund

Sierra Club

Conservation International 

Environmental Justice Foundation

World Wildlife Fund 

Friends of the Earth International

Natural Resources Defense Council

The Nature Conservancy 

Step #3: Exercise 

When you find yourself in a stressful situation, the first thing that may go out the window for you may be your exercise routine. When we are extremely concerned about the world around us, it can be easy to get distracted and forget to care for ourselves. 

By being intentional about getting proper levels of exercise we can improve our mental health, physical health, confidence, and immune system. This doesn’t mean you must become an ultramarathoner and run 35-40 miles a week. We suggest that you make time to move your body in a way that fits your schedule and life. 

This may look like a 20-30 minute walk, trying a yoga routine that you find online, or going for a run with a friend that you care about. Remember that although it can be tough to get going your body and mind will thank you later!

Step #4: Deep Breathing 

When you feel as if you are becoming overwhelmed with eco-anxiety and you need a quick coping strategy deep breathing could be a great option for you. According to an article from the National Library of Medicine, “Daily deep breathing exercise can lower resting blood pressure (BP) and reduce stress and anxiety” (Tavoian, D., & Craighead D. H., 2023).

An example of a deep breathing exercise you could do is 4-7-8 breathing. You will start by inhaling through your nose for a count of four and then hold your breath for a count of seven. Then exhale through your mouth for a count of eight. There are various forms of deep breathing exercises to explore out there! Find one that works for you. 

Although you may think you have heard this before, giving something a second try with full participation is always worth a shot! 

Step #5: Humor Helps!

Laughing can lighten your mental load and make you feel better. Laughter has been proven to improve your immune system, relieve pain, increase personal satisfaction, and improve your mood.  According to the Mayo Clinic, “Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain” (Mayo Clinic, 2023).

What do you call a pile of cats?

 A meow-ntain

Resources

Tavoian, D., & Craighead, D. H. (2023). Deep breathing exercise at work: Potential applications and impact. Frontiers in physiology, 14, 1040091. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2023.1040091

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023, September 22). Stress relief from laughter? it’s no joke. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relief/art-20044456