Feeling climate anxiety?

Posted on by Walking SA

So, the year has been hectic so far – the slow motion destruction of the ongoing algal bloom in our coastal waters and a sharp drought turning our country brown.

What can we do to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our planet moving forward?

Firstly – Get outdoors, walk that dog, make that club walk, do the trail catch-up with friends, have that family picnic. It’s important to stay connected to the earth, be as healthy as possible and to keep moving.

Secondly – if you feel the need to take action, do so. Acting locally can make a big impact so attend planting days, get involved in community groups, bushwalking groups, and conservation projects, or write a letter to your local or Federal MP and express your concerns. Together we can make some noise to ensure future policy and programs are considered through informed environmental perspectives.

Thirdly – choose when and how you engage with the news. Choosing one or two issues that mean the most to you can help you stay involved without getting overwhelmed. You do not have to be up to date with every bleak news item or revelation. It is important we consider our zone of influence, that is what we can do, and resist feelings of powerlessness through engaging in too much sensationalist doom scrolling.

Fourthly – if you are feeling impacted, speak up. You are not alone in feeling this crisis – it’s affecting everyone, of all ages. Talk to loved ones and friends, and consult your GP or a mental health professional.

Finally – consider what you can do to tread lightly on your patch of the planet. Reach out to your council, local friends group or Conservation SA for ideas.

Be Here Now – Ram Dass

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