How to Parent in the Age of Climate Anxiety

Last night I went to a talk called “Parenting in the Age of Climate Anxiety.” Yikes. Heavy. I went because I wanted to see how to cope with my fears as well as those of my kids. I distinctly remember thinking before having children, “Should we do this? Is this the world to bring kids into given the shit show they’re in for?” Yup, that’s climate anxiety.

Luckily, my children aren’t experiencing climate anxiety.

Yet. Or are they? Are they internalizing their worry and I don’t know it? It’s possible. But I honestly think they’re hanging in there.

The class was led by a therapist specializing in climate anxiety. From the other parents it sounds like this is a bit heavier with older kids and teens who are more exposed to the news or learn about it at school. They’re showing anger and hostility towards their elders for getting us into this mess. They anxiety can express itself in nervousness and other physical manifestations of anxiety and depression such as stomach aches and chest tightness, therefore we may have to dig more into what is bothering them.

It wasn’t all doom and gloom.

We learned some coping mechanisms that gave me a lot to think about and to be prepared if and when my children do start to worry.

I’ve come across this type of presentation before, so you may be able to find one through your school district (as mine was), through local community groups, online, through local environmental groups, or with a therapist specializing in climate anxiety. If you can’t find one, you could make it happen! Start with finding a therapist and connect them with your children’s school.

Here are the tips I picked up:

How to Handle the Worry

• Name it to tame it. Let your kids express their fears in order to address what’s worrying them.
• Make space to talk about it.
• Be open with your own fears to let them know they’re not alone in theirs.
• Recognize and validate their feelings.
• Know that uncertainty is the hardest part of the climate crisis.
• Connect with nature, see the beauty and practice gratitude

Most importantly: find a way to take action that works for you. Big or small. Something that brings you joy, purpose and empowers you and gives you hope.

For me, I curb my climate anxiety by sharing how to go more green as a busy mom living in the real world. Zero waste actions really do make an impact because our consumption is literally half of the problem and curbing it really is an empowering solution.

Make sure you don’t miss a beat! Sign up for emails and be the first to get new blog posts and tips.