Be Kind To Your Mind

If you’re feeling emotional about where the world is headed, you’re not alone. From the trauma of experiencing a climate disaster to the anxiety of an unknown future, there’s growing evidence that climate change is having an impact on our mental health.

The climate crisis is one of the biggest challenges we’ve ever faced. At times it can feel overwhelming, not knowing where to start and like our actions don’t count. But there is good news - one of the best ways to support your mental health is to take action on climate - like the steps you see throughout this website. If you feel you need more support, talking to professionals, joining a support group, or trying to practice mindfulness are also good ideas.

Looking after your mental health will give you the strength to tackle climate change - we need you!

tips

Taking action on climate can strengthen your mental health, especially when you do it with others. So consider taking this step alongside one of our other steps and possibly joining a group where you can take action on climate with others.

Equally important is talking to someone about how you feel. Most people are worried about climate change, but they might not be talking about it, so breaking the silence will help you and others. If it’s difficult to talk to those around you, consider reaching out to new people in your community through initiatives like the Good Grief Network or Climate Cafes. Or ask your mental health professional to become climate aware or trained on the psychology of climate change.

Consider other mental health activities that could help focus your mind, control your breathing and lower your heart rate, such as yoga, mindfulness, meditation and spending time in nature.

Search out an online newsletter about how to handle climate stress, like Gen Dread.

benefits

Negative emotions about climate change can impact your daily life and how you function. Improving your resilience with coping strategies can improve your mental health, wellbeing, and give you the strength needed to move forward.

It could also connect you to like-minded people, who share your concerns, providing the social support to take action together.

text reprinted with permission from Count Us In