RESEARCH

A Scoping Review of Interventions for the Treatment of Eco-Anxiety

This review explores different ways to help people cope with eco-anxiety, a fear of climate change’s impact. It highlights methods like talking in support groups, changing negative thinking, and reconnecting with nature. However, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these approaches.
Program Types: Therapeutic
Population Groups: General Population
Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Improved Stress Management
Allied Profession Intersections: Climate Psychology/Psychotherapy
Type of Activity: Forest/Natural Area Immersion, Mindfulness/Visualizations
Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies
Access: Free
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Summary

This review examines various psychological approaches to treating eco-anxiety, a distressing emotional response to climate change. It identifies five major themes in interventions: fostering inner resilience, encouraging social connection, promoting action, practitioner self-education, and reconnecting with nature. Key strategies include cognitive techniques to reduce catastrophic thinking, grief-focused therapies, and group-based support like rituals and shared discussions. The study highlights the importance of holistic, multi-layered treatment plans, incorporating emotional processing alongside practical environmental engagement​
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A major finding is that group interventions, such as structured support groups and community rituals, help individuals manage eco-anxiety by providing emotional validation and shared coping mechanisms. While some specific interventions exist, the review notes a lack of empirical studies measuring their effectiveness, emphasizing the need for more research. It also stresses the role of mental health practitioners in deepening their understanding of climate-related grief and trauma to provide better support.

Link

Baudon, P., & Jachens, L. (2021). A Scoping Review of Interventions for the Treatment of Eco-Anxiety. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(18), 9636.

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