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MENTAL HEALTH x CLIMATE CHANGE
MENTAL HEALTH x CLIMATE CHANGE
In recent years, scientists have begun to acknowledge the connection between climate change and our mental health. Whether it’s a specific event, or climate change in general, the resulting “eco-anxiety” can be challenging. In addition to listening to nature sounds, there are many science-backed actions you can take to connect with nature and ease eco-anxiety.
Take care of your mental health through nature
THE FACTS
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GREEN (AND BLUE) SPACES
Regular exposure to green spaces (parks, gardens) and blue spaces (rivers, wetlands) can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. Studies show that spending as little as 30mn once per week is enough to reduce depressive symptoms.
Don’t live near one of these spaces? You can get many of the same benefits by taking a walk through a tree-lined neighborhood.
THE FACTS
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GREEN EXERCISE
While the physical and mental benefits of exercise are well-documented, performing these same activities in nature enhances positive effects including improved cardiovascular and mental health, blood pressure, stress management, and self-esteem.
Try taking your next run or yoga class outside, or start simply with a walk.
THE FACTS
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GARDENING
There is increasing evidence that gardening is beneficial to both mental and physical health. It has been shown to lighten mood and lower levels of stress and anxiety, and is even associated with a lower level of dementia.
You don’t need to have a ton of space to get started - you can start your gardening practice with as little as a pot on your windowsill.
THE FACTS
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NATURE BREAKS FOR PRODUCTIVITY
Ever feel stuck when you’re trying to solve a problem? Studies show that taking a nature break can help break through mental blocks and improve performance by reducing the impacts of stress, mental fatigue, and negative emotions.
This could be as simple as looking out a window or going for a walk, or something bigger like building a bird feeder.
THE FACTS
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VOLUNTEERING
One of the best ways to combat eco-anxiety is by volunteering or taking part in conservation activities, both of which can inspire feelings of purpose, community, and hope.
There are limitless ways to pursue this, from planting trees and helping remove invasive species to cleaning up litter and supporting a composting effort.
Learn more about climate change x mental health
Take Action
Dose of nature
Dose of Nature is a clinically led, evidence-based mental health charity that improves the mental health and wellbeing of individuals through increased engagement with the natural world, by inspiring lifestyle changes and new habits.
Global Fund for Mental Health
The Global Fund for Mental Health is dedicated to supporting research, education, and training to expand mental health services in under-resourced communities, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and raise global mental health awareness.
Climate Mental Health Network
Climate Mental Health Network serves as a vital resource hub, offering tools, programs, and guidance to help communities better understand how climate-related emotions influence collective and individual well-being and how to respond effectively.
Gen Dread newsletter
Consider this newsletter the clearing house for new, old, and emerging ideas to strengthen our emotional intelligence, psychological resilience, and mental health while we’re in this planetary pickle.
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