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Ecoanxiety

Climate change impacts mental health for many people.

You may have experienced an extreme weather event or feel worried and helpless about the future. Help is avaliable

Sunset across a valley with wind turbines and sheep in the distance

What is ecoanxiety?

Climate change is increasingly impacting many people’s mental health. It’s normal to feel angry, anxious, helpless, fearful or sad when thinking about climate change and extreme weather events.

Some people have been impacted by extreme weather and are working to rebuild their lives while worrying about future events. For some, climate change is impacting jobs, financial security, connection to the whenua (land) and/or their ability to build strong connections with community.

“It’s a balancing act. Too much fear-based information can tip me over. I’ve become more purposeful in the content that I take in to make sure I’m focusing on action and hope.” – Sarah, health promoter.

If you are feeling what some people call 'ecoanxiety' or 'climate anxiety', join us to find ways to help yourself and the environment.

“The best thing for me is taking action for nature, in nature.” – Russ, community tree planter.
Why do I feel ecoanxiety?

We all have a different and very personal relationship to the environment. It’s natural to feel worried or anxious about the impacts of climate change. Māori and many other cultures have a sacred connection to Te Taiao and the whenua. If you’ve experienced extreme weather events, are going through financial challenges or live with mental distress, you may find climate change has a stronger impact on your mental health.

Find more ways to cope with climate worries

Find tips and tools for ecoanxiety on Anxiety NZ.

Learn more

Reachout has more practical ways to cope with climate anxiety.

Find out more

Climate Mental Health Network Aoteaora raises awareness, shares research and creates conversation spaces.

Find out more
How can ecoanxiety affect mental health?

Ecoanxiety can affect our mental health in different ways, including:

  • Rebuilding and recovering after extreme weather events affect your whenua, home or community.
  • Seeing stories in the news or online about climate change and feeling powerless, angry and/or fearful.
  • Learning more about climate change and feeling overwhelmed.
  • Feeling less safe in our homes, feeling less hope for the future.
  • Grieving what has been lost, including natural environments, species, homes.
  • Feeling guilt over your own activities (e.g. travel, electricity use etc).

All these feelings are normal responses to climate change and often come from feelings of love, care and empathy for others and the world around you.