Therapy groups for eco-distress are spreading globally to help people cope with climate anxiety

Group therapy sessions, such as those offered by the Good Grief Network, are helping people around the world manage feelings of anxiety, grief and despair linked to climate change.

Nina Dietz reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• LaUra Schmidt founded the Good Grief Network after identifying the emotional toll of climate science on frontline workers.
• The network offers a 10-step peer support program to help participants process grief and distress related to climate change.
• The rise in eco-distress has led to various informal support groups like climate cafes, held in diverse locations from campuses to coffeehouses.

Key quote:

“In the face of a looming collapse, uncertainty is actually pretty cool.”

— a new Good Grief Network facilitator

Why this matters:

As the climate crisis worsens, more people are feeling the emotional burden. Addressing eco-distress is essential for maintaining mental health and empowering collective action against global warming.

Read more:

• How to address the looming crisis of climate anxiety
• Coach for social change leaders offers support to overcome climate anxiety
• WATCH: EHN reporter Kristina Marusic discusses the alarming link between air pollution and mental illness