The Spread of 'Climate Depression': How to Care for a Crumbling Mind

As the Earth's temperature rises, humanity's anxiety deepens. 'Climate Depression' or 'Eco-Anxiety' is rapidly emerging as a mental health issue of the new era.

This term encompasses the chronic feelings of fear, helplessness, sadness, and anger that individuals experience in the face of the massive disasters of the climate crisis and environmental destruction. It is no longer just the concern of a few environmental activists.

The American Psychological Association (APA) defines eco-anxiety as a "chronic fear stemming from uncertainty and uncontrollability about the future," warning that if left unaddressed, it can lead to severe depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Especially the younger generations are more vulnerable to climate depression. According to a recent study published in an international journal, about 60% of adolescents worldwide reported that the climate crisis negatively affects their daily lives.

Climate depression exhibits different patterns from typical depression. It is a perfectly normal and rational response to a global disaster rather than an individual problem.

The issue arises when these feelings become overwhelming, making it difficult to carry on with daily life, or when one falls into cynicism and nihilism, losing the motivation to solve the problems.

Experts emphasize that overcoming climate depression requires not only personal mindfulness but also social solidarity and action.

First, it is important to acknowledge and share one's feelings. Recognizing that feeling sadness and anxiety due to the climate crisis is not an isolated experience is crucial.

Just talking and sharing feelings with others who have similar concerns can provide great comfort. Recently, there has been a growing trend of self-help groups and counseling programs where people experiencing climate depression come together to support each other.

Second, one should focus on small actions rather than feeling guilty. Individuals do not need to bear all the responsibility for environmental destruction.

Rather than striving for perfection, it is important to practice sustainable small habits in daily life to regain a sense of self-efficacy. Using a tumbler, adopting a plant-based diet, and participating in local environmental activities are good examples.

Third, we need to restore our connection with nature. Spending time in nature is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and regain emotional stability.

Ironically, climate depression is also evidence of how deeply we are connected to the Earth.

Ultimately, climate depression is a signal urging us not to remain in sadness but to take action. Caring for a crumbling mind is the starting point for caring for the Earth.

The recovery of individuals and the recovery of the Earth cannot be separated, and creating active hope through solidarity is the most important task of our time.