Climate Distress

Yes, our world is in jeopardy, and it can feel overwhelming

Anxiety, grief, rage, hopelessness, despair. These are valid emotional responses to the climate emergency we are facing… and they can become overwhelming or all-consuming, leaving us too depleted to show up for what matters in our lives.  

Climate-aware counselling can help you find a middle way between denial and despair. Learn to balance acknowledging the reality of the climate crisis with skillful behaviours that promote personal resilience and sustainable action. 

Connecting with other climate aware individuals through a support group can also help validate your experience, so you feel less alone in the work.

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Individual counselling for climate distress

I use the term “climate distress” to capture a diverse set of responses to awareness of the climate crisis, including “eco-anxiety”, grief, existential despair, hopelessness, overwhelm, and rage. These are valid responses to an existential threat to our own survival, and the survival of the people, places, creatures, and systems we hold dear.

So how do we proceed in the face of this distressing reality?

  • Acknowledge Your Distress

    Noticing, naming, and acknowledging painful thoughts and feelings can help with understanding and easing distress. Together we can practice bringing mindful awareness and compassion to your experience.

  • Build Flexibility and Resilience

    Develop skills that support psychological flexibility and emotional resilience. Learn to be present, unhook from unhelpful thoughts, make space for painful emotions, and orient towards adaptive action.

  • Engage in Skillful Action

    Skillful action takes into account your own values, strengths, resources, and goals. What really matters to you? What activities are meaningful, revitalizing, and sustainable? Let’s figure that out, and help you go do it.

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Climate Support Groups

Do you feel alone in your distress about the climate? Do you wish you could be in community with other people who understand your grief, anger, and fear for our world and our future? Join other climate-aware individuals in online and in-person spaces for climate-related community and support. Follow the link below to see current and upcoming offerings.