RESEARCH

The Process of Eco-Anxiety and Ecological Grief: A Narrative Review and a New Proposal

This study developed a new model to understand the process of experiencing eco-anxiety and ecological grief, highlighting phases of awareness, coping, and transformation. The model emphasizes the importance of balancing action, emotional engagement, and self-care to manage these emotions effectively, providing a nuanced framework for individuals and professionals to navigate the psychological impacts of the ecological crisis.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: General Population

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Improved Stress Management

Allied Profession Intersections: Climate Psychology/Psychotherapy

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews, Qualitative Research

Access: Free

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Summary

This research paper explores how people experience and cope with eco-anxiety and ecological grief, which are emotional responses to the ecological crisis. Eco-anxiety refers to feelings of worry and uncertainty about environmental issues, while ecological grief involves sadness and loss due to ecological damage. The study aims to create a new model that explains how people go through these emotions, from initial unawareness to phases of awakening, shock, and coping. The model highlights the importance of self-care and emotional engagement in managing these feelings, as well as the role of taking action to address environmental problems.

The proposed model emphasizes that coping with eco-anxiety and ecological grief involves three main dimensions: taking action to help the environment, processing emotions like grief, and maintaining emotional distance through self-care. It also notes that these processes are not linear but can fluctuate over time. The study suggests that understanding these emotional responses can help individuals, researchers, and professionals better navigate the challenges of the ecological crisis. By recognizing the interplay between anxiety, grief, and action, people can develop more effective strategies for coping and transforming their responses to environmental issues.

Link

https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/14/24/16628

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