Stress about the climate – what are we stressing about now?

Climate change anxiety vs. increased social stress: A psychological and social analysis

Climate change has become one of the most serious challenges of our time, and its impact on the public psyche is becoming increasingly apparent. More and more people are experiencing anxiety over growing environmental problems, which in turn is leading to increased stress levels in society.

Psychological research shows that concern about climate change can lead to a variety of emotional reactions, including anxiety, helplessness, or even depression. This phenomenon is often referred to as “eco-anxiety” and refers to negative emotional reactions resulting from concerns about the future of the planet.

One of the factors that contributes to increased stress levels due to climate change is the visibility and availability of information about the threat. Thanks to global social media and the speed of information, people are constantly bombarded with reports on natural disasters, biodiversity loss and other negative effects of climate change. This, in turn, can lead to an increased sense of powerlessness and anxiety about the future.

In addition, increasing environmental awareness in society also plays an important role in increasing the level of stress associated with climate change. People are increasingly realizing the seriousness of the situation and seeing the need to take immediate action to protect the environment. However, the lack of effective action at the global or national level can lead to frustration and increased stress levels.

It is also worth noting that concern about climate change can have various social consequences. This can lead to social divisions, with some social groups denying the existence of the problem or advocating other priorities. In addition, it could lead to an increase in international conflicts related to access to natural resources, climate migration and other climate change issues.

In the face of these challenges, it is important for society to take action at both the individual and collective levels to manage the stresses of climate change. Educating about climate change adaptation, promoting sustainable lifestyles and supporting environmental protection efforts can help reduce feelings of helplessness and social anxiety.

Findings from psychological and social research indicate that concern about climate change has a significant impact on the public psyche, leading to increased levels of stress and other negative emotional reactions. Therefore, coordinated action is needed at the individual, societal and global levels to manage this challenge and promote the public’s mental health in the face of climate change.