Climate change has a negative psychological impact that many people appear to be overlooking. The mental suffering that comes with changing weather patterns and widespread anxiety about climate change on news reports has become unbearable for many people.
The term "eco-anxiety" has become widely used. People are seeking professional assistance to help them cope with the negative consequences of worrying about the environment. The tension is draining, especially in young people, whether they are directly affected or follow news updates.
The term "climate anxiety" is a relatively recent issue in therapy sessions. Thomas J. Doherty and Susan Clayton, two psychologists from the United States, wrote a paper on the psychological impacts of climate change ten years ago. The New York Times observed that, despite the rapid expansion of research, there is still no empirical data on effective treatment.
Personal challenges of people trying to cope with 'eco-anxiety,' a notion proposed by youth activists, have become increasingly common in the news over the years.
Last year, Bath University, in partnership with five other universities, conducted a survey that spanned 10 countries and yielded some alarming results.
According to the BBC, nearly 60 per cent of young people polled stated they were very concerned or extremely concerned about climate change. More over 45 per cent of individuals polled stated their feelings about the environment had an impact on their daily life. A total of 10,000 persons aged 16 to 25 responded to the survey.
Many people fear they are doomed or that the planet is doomed. Several people believe politicians have failed them or that no one is taking coercive action.
People have sought counselling as a result of their despair over many climate calamities. The worst-affected countries are those where severe climate change is common. According to the BBC, Portugal is the world's most concerned country, as the European country battles to cope with recent wildfires.
The alarmingly high rates of pessimism, particularly among young individuals, prompted therapists to take action. Climate therapists were compelled to work on a remedy because to the severity of the situation.
According to The New York Times, the Climate Psychology Alliance maintains an online directory of climate-aware therapists in the US; the Good Grief Network, a peer support network modelled after 12-step addiction programmes, has spawned more than 50 groups in the same nation; and professional certification programmes in climate psychology have also emerged.
The severe psychological impacts of climate change denial are a serious issue, and therapists will hopefully be able to help individuals cope with the stress that does not appear to be going away anytime soon.