Starting in 2020, with the arrival of Covid, it seems like we’ve been hit with one event after another. While Covid, with its requirement of isolation, had a major impact on everyone initially, many affected by chronic conditions continue to be vigilant to avoid infection or re infection. Add to this the cold reality that we’re now facing the “elephant in the living room”- climate change, and it’s not surprising that many are feeling stressed and anxious.
I live where it floods. We've had three-four in less than a year, with varying impact depending on where you lived. Most of us are waiting for “the other shoe to drop,” and are fearful of the hurricane forecasts and what the late summer/fall will bring. However, people waffle in their reactions. Some days they believe the worst is over, only to have reality swoop in and replace that with fear. Social media is filled with the various reports of the dire hurricane forecasts, rising heat levels, tornadoes, and so much more. People are definitely a tad edgy, particularly when it rains.
Uncertainty is a stressor in and of itself. What’s concerning is that we’ve been operating at this level for almost a year with definite peaks and valleys, but it’s an ever present concern in my community.
There is now a new phrase entering our vocabulary-climate anxiety or eco-anxiety. In fact, the American Psychological Society’s society research shows that more than two-thirds of Americans are dealing with “climate anxiety.” So how do we deal with it?
WAYS TO COPE
Focus on what you can control: Some have decided that the stress is too much and have opted for “buy outs” or selling their property. Renters are looking to move to other towns. However, the majority of us recognize that climate is a universal issue and no matter where we go, there will be something to contend with. Consequently, we’re working together to make our community a safe and fun place to live.
- Do what you can to help the environment. Lots of websites offer ideas on ways you can help. These are just two sites to consider Earth.org NOAA
- Prepare your home, your family and yourself for future weather emergencies. Use Ready to help you prepare for weather that’s relevant to your area.
- Limit news and social media. Know enough to be informed but not overwhelmed
Don’t Let yourself become overwhelmed: Trying to take on the world is not only impossible, it quickly leads to burn out. Do what you can, when you can and don’t beat yourself up if you can’t do all you’d like to do. Take care of yourself by eating healthy, exercising, laughing and enjoying all the positives in your life. Take breaks. Remember healing our environment is a marathon.
Try stress/pain relief techniques
- EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) or Tapping Currently one of my favorites, this is a holistic practice that is easy to learn and apply to self and produces relief from stress, anxiety and the symptoms of burnout within in minutes. This is an evidenced-based practice which is grounded in the integrative field of energy psychology (EP) and integrates components of cognitive behavioral therapies, exposure therapy and body stimulation of acupressure points on the face and body. Lots of videos and tutorials on line. Below are two videos to consider, but there is plenty on line to check out. If you prefer reading about EFT click here.
- Qigong for stress relief
- Breathing exercises: Lots of different breathing practices can help. This is just one example.
You aren’t alone: Reach out to others. Many have the same concerns you do. Join a like-minded group that can help you feel supported and connected. Having hope and seeing that others believe change can happen is important and will help to improve your quality of life.
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