Eco-anxiety is a recent phenomenon that manifests itself as an emotional response to the environmental crisis.
The elemental role that the environment plays in mental and emotional health is often forgotten. However, mental health and the environment are intimately linked. Living in a degraded environment has a negative impact on mental health. In addition, biodiversity loss, water and air pollution, and climate change can lead to a variety of mental health problems.
Studies show that exposure to air pollution increases the risk of mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. Likewise, the degradation of a green environment, because of deforestation and the loss of green spaces, generates greater stress and a reduced sense of well-being.
What is eco-anxiety?
This phenomenon is a clear example of the link between mental health and the environment. It consists of concern and anxiety about the deplorable state of the environment and the future of the planet. It is an emotional response to the environmental crisis that mainly affects younger people; it includes feelings of sadness, anger, and hopelessness. Often, it is the result of impotence in the face of the climate crisis.
It is, therefore, important to foster a positive relationship between young people and nature. As children or teenagers, they have a stronger connection with nature; they tend to spend time outdoors, explore forests, and play in parks and gardens. However, as they grow older, they put these activities aside and tend to spend more time on social networks.
In addition, it is necessary to educate young people about climate change and how to deal with it to help them reduce their anxiety. Letting them know that small actions have a big impact on nature and encouraging them to contribute to this cause.
Finally, the Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana (International Iberoamerican University) (UNIB) offers the Master in Environmental Management and Audits.
Source: Salud mental y medio ambiente: ¿cuál es su conexión?
