Living in Fear of the Future: The Psychology Behind Climate Anxiety
Keywords:
Climate anxiety, indigenous communities, coping mechanisms, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, environmental education, climate changeAbstract
Climate anxiety, a psychological condition arising from concerns about climate change, is increasingly affecting individuals worldwide. This emotional distress, marked by fear, helplessness, and sadness, is particularly evident in youth, indigenous communities, and vulnerable populations facing the most severe environmental impacts. As climate change exacerbates the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, the mental health toll grows. This literature review explores the causes, effects, and coping mechanisms associated with climate anxiety, emphasizing the role of media exposure, ecological loss, and socio- economic factors in amplifying fear. Psychological therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and community-driven interventions such as activism and policy changes are essential for managing climate anxiety. Integrating environmental psychology into educational curricula and fostering awareness can empower individuals to take action, reducing the paralyzing effects of fear. By focusing on human adaptability and collective resilience, we can transform climate anxiety into a force for positive change and environmental stewardship.
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