Young Reporters for the Environment
Eco-Anxiety: The Psychological Impact of a Changing Planet
by Sophie Sheffield
What Is Ecological Anxiety?
The environment provides the conditions for life, but what happens when these conditions are under threat? Many people today experience fear, worry, and uncertainty about the future of the planet. This emotional response is known as ecological anxiety, often shortened to eco‑anxiety. The American Psychological Association describes eco‑anxiety as “a chronic fear of environmental doom” (American Psychological Association 2017).
Ecological anxiety is not yet officially classified as a psychiatric disorder, but psychologists and researchers increasingly recognise it as a real response to environmental threats (Clayton & Karazsia 2020).
Different researchers use terms such as climate anxiety, ecological distress, or solastalgia. Solastalgia describes the distress people experience when their home environment changes or deteriorates due to environmental damage. The concept was introduced by philosopher Glenn Albrecht (Albrecht 2007).
Why Is Ecological Anxiety Relevant Today?
Ecological anxiety has become more relevant in recent years due to growing awareness of environmental problems worldwide. News about climate change is constantly present in media and public discussions.
Research shows that many people are worried about the future of the environment, especially young people. A global survey of 10,000 young people aged 16–25 found that 59% were very or extremely worried about climate change, while more than 75% described the future as frightening (Hickman et al. 2021).
This global concern in Ireland, presents through storms and heavy rainfall which are roughly 20% more intense, leading to flooding, property damage, and disrupted communities (Met Éireann 2024). National surveys indicate that over 80% of Irish adults are worried about climate change, with many specifically concerned about extreme weather affecting their towns and regions (EPA 2021).
These concerns can affect mental health. Studies have found that ecological anxiety is associated with symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression (Cosh 2024).
Why Is Ecological Anxiety Growing?
One major reason eco‑anxiety appears to be increasing is the internet and 24‑hour news, which continually expose people to environmental crises across the globe. While awareness is not necessarily bad, media focus on worst‑case scenarios and dismal scientific predictions can cause distress.
Young people report particularly high levels of climate anxiety. Many feel uncertain about their future and believe they will inherit environmental problems created by previous generations. Surveys show that many young people believe governments are not doing enough to address climate change (Hickman et al. 2021).
Causes of Ecological Anxiety
Ecological anxiety does not come from a single cause. Instead, it develops through interaction between environmental changes and psychological responses.
Visible environmental problems such as rising global temperatures, biodiversity loss, deforestation, and extreme weather events can trigger concern. Media exposure, scientific reports, and political debates about climate change can intensify these reactions. In addition, political inaction can lead to frustration and a sense that solutions are not being implemented quickly enough.
Dangers and Downsides of Ecological Anxiety
Ecological anxiety can have both positive and negative effects depending on its intensity.
Moderate concern about environmental issues can encourage environmentally friendly behaviours.
However, excessive eco‑anxiety can have harmful consequences. High levels of ecological anxiety are associated with increased stress, depression, and psychological distress (Cosh 2024).
Some people may respond by avoiding environmental information entirely. Others may develop feelings of helplessness about the future, which in can lead to environmental nihilism.
Fortunately, research suggests that action‑oriented behaviour and community involvement can help reduce feelings of helplessness.
Participating in environmental activities, volunteering, or adopting sustainable habits can create a sense of control and provide social support for processing emotions.
For some individuals, eco‑anxiety can become severe enough to affect daily life. In such cases, psychological support from mental health professionals may be beneficial.
Ultimately, the most effective solution to ecological anxiety is to address its root cause: environmental degradation itself. Unlike many forms of anxiety that are based on irrational fears, eco‑anxiety is often a rational response to real environmental changes (Cosh 2024).