Coping with climate anxiety
Climate change is connected to more frequent and intense weather events like floods, fires, droughts and storms. Living through or witnessing these events, or hearing about them constantly, can bring up worry, sadness and stress. If you’re feeling affected, you’re not alone.
Climate anxiety (sometimes called eco‑anxiety) describes emotional distress related to climate change and its impacts. Common emotional responses can include grief or sadness, anger, frustration or hopelessness. These feelings often come from uncertainty about the future, concerns about safety or well‑being and a sense of limited control over large, ongoing issues. Because climate change is widespread and long‑term, it can feel especially heavy.
Learning ways to cope can help you process these feelings, avoid burnout and stay connected to everyday life—while still caring about the future. Here are some strategies to try.
Focus on what’s within your control
Climate change is complex and no single person or group can solve it alone. While that can feel discouraging, it can also be grounding to focus on day-to-day habits and actions that are within your reach.
Examples include:
- Getting involved in climate or sustainability initiatives—check out events at the Environmental Center to get started, like on April 7.
Signing up for a free EcoVisit to learn about how you can make your residence more sustainable.
- Contacting elected officials about issues you care about.
- Building sustainable habits (energy use, composting, recycling, mindful consumption).
- Making food choices with lower environmental impact, like plant-based options.
- Exploring alternative ways to commute.
- Talking with friends or family about climate issues, or connecting with Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS).
- Donating time or money to organizations you trust.
Small choices aren’t about perfection—they’re about practicing habits that support a more sustainable future.
Get involved on campus:
The Environmental Center supports students in building knowledge, leadership skills and community around environmental and climate justice at CU and beyond. Learn about upcoming events, including the 33rd Annual Campus Sustainability Summit on April 15.
Avoid overload and burnout
Trying to engage with everything can quickly become exhausting. Instead, consider narrowing your focus on the issues that matter most to you.
You don’t have to say yes to every opportunity. Choosing where to put your energy can help you reduce stress, maintain balance and stay engaged over the long term.
Practice self‑compassion
Caring deeply about climate change can come with high expectations—for yourself and others. When possible, approach your efforts with kindness rather than self‑criticism.
You might find it helpful to:
- Notice and name your emotions (like “I’m feeling frustrated” or “I’m feeling sad”).
- Allow space for mixed or uncomfortable feelings without judgment.
- Remind yourself that caring for your mental health is part of sustainable action.
Helpful reminders:
- It’s okay to feel stressed or worried about climate change.
- Change takes time, and no one can do everything.
- Taking breaks can help you stay engaged in ways that are healthy.
Take breaks from climate news
Constant exposure to climate‑related news or social media can intensify distress. Stepping away (temporarily) doesn’t mean you don’t care. It means you’re protecting your capacity to cope.
Taking a break might look like:
- Muting news or social accounts for a while
- Spending time on hobbies or creative activities
- Connecting with friends or family without discussing climate issues
- Spending time outdoors
- Prioritizing rest and self‑care
Remember, the information will still be there when you’re ready to re‑engage.
Stay connected with others
It’s easy to focus on worst‑case scenarios, but many people are working toward solutions and meaningful change. Connecting with others who share your concerns can help you feel supported, grounded and hopeful.
One option is the , which offers peer‑to‑peer support groups focused on processing climate‑related emotions and turning them into meaningful action.
Talk to someone about how you’re feeling
Climate anxiety is real and you don’t have to handle it alone. If these feelings start to interfere with daily life, reaching out for support can help.
Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers workshops, drop-in hours, screening appointments and referrals to help students address mental health concerns.
By taking care of yourself and connecting with others, you can sustain your commitment to climate action while fostering resilience and hope.