Eco-Anxiety as a New Social Phenomenon

Date of the last update: 22.10.2024

Exploring how climate anxiety has become a social phenomenon that affects different age and social groups. The topic could include differences in the perception of climate anxiety among generations and its impact on activism and social action. Eco-anxiety is not a new trend but a serious social phenomenon that is the subject of scientific and political debates. This is because it is affecting increasingly broad sections of society, regardless of age or status. This feeling of anxiety about the threat of climate change and its consequences for the future of the planet is influencing the way people think and act, leading to an increase in activism and commitment to environmental action. So let’s take a look at how ecollectivism has become a new social phenomenon, affecting different age and social groups, and what implications it has for activism and social action.

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What is eco-anxiety? What does this phenomenon consist of?

Eco-anxiety, also known as climate anxiety, is a feeling of anxiety, fear or stress caused by concerns about the future of the environment. It can include worries about natural disasters, loss of biodiversity, changes in weather conditions or uncertainty about the future of our planet. Research shows that environmentalism, also known as climate anxiety, has real and significant mental health consequences. One example is a 2021 study led by Dr Caroline Hickman from the University of Bristol. This study found that people experiencing severe climate anxiety often report symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as reduced quality of life.

Check out also: Green activities: what you can do for the environment

Generations and their response to ecological anxiety

Different generations react differently to climate change and the associated anxiety.

Research findings highlight that younger generations such as millennials and generation Z often express strong fears about the future and are more inclined to environmental activism. This is because it is young people who are particularly vulnerable to the problems caused by climate change. They are also more aware of the incidence of the problem and more willing to take action on environmental issues. Research also shows that schoolchildren and students often report depressive and anxiety symptoms related to concerns about the future of the planet, leading them to seek psychological support.

Older generations, on the other hand, may have different priorities and attitudes towards climate change. This is due to the fact that they grew up at a time when environmental topics were not as widely discussed or present in education. As a result, they perceive current climate problems as less urgent. In addition, older people often have limited access to the latest information, especially if they do not use digital media, so they do not feel the same strong environmental anxiety as younger generations. For them, climate change may seem more distant and less connected to everyday life.

Eco-anxiety and social activism

Ecollectivism has a significant impact on social activism and action. Therefore, it is in the hands of young people, as an eco-aware and eco-feeling generation, that the responsibility lies to mobilise society for environmental action. It is no surprise then that the determination and commitment of the younger generations is leading to innovative initiatives, pressure on policy makers and a greater push for the social change that is needed to combat the effects of climate change and build a more sustainable future.

One of the best-known climate activists is, Greta Thunberg, whose actions highlight the importance of social mobilisation and environmental action as a response to growing threats.

Explore more: How to start your journey with ecotherapy: step by step

Summary

Eco-anxiety as a new social phenomenon reflects a growing awareness of the dangers of the climate crisis and its impact on people’s lives. The differences in perceptions of climate anxiety between generations and its impact on social activism demonstrate the importance of understanding the emotions involved. As more and more people engage in pro-environmental activities, ecollectivism can become a driver of the social and political change needed to address the climate crisis.