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<ul class="summary-list"><li>Eco-anxiety is on the rise as more people become aware of how <keyword id="11896311" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="climate-change" source="Orion">climate change</keyword> will impact them.</li><li>Younger people are feeling particularly anxious about the world they're inheriting, research shows.</li><li>Insider spoke to experts and people with eco-anxiety to find out more about their worries.</li></ul>Jennie Ferrara's husband brought home the newspaper one day because he thought the front-page story would interest his wife. Instead, it almost made her faint. The year was 2008, and some of the leading oil companies in the world were announcing plans to extract more oil from <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/keystone-xl-canada-oil-sands-photos-2017-1?r=US&amp;IR=TIR=T">Canada's tar sands</a> - a move that would prove detrimental to the environment.Ferrara, who is originally from Texas but lives in Denmark, had felt pessimistic about the environment for many years, but the headline that day tipped her over the edge.Read more: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/fossil-fuel-interests-target-climate-advocates-personally-2021-8?r=US&amp;IR=TIR=T">As denying climate change becomes impossible, fossil-fuel interests pivot to 'carbon shaming'</a>"When I looked, just looked, at the front page, I practically went comatose," Ferrara recalled to Insider."It feels like you're suddenly zooming in on something, your body goes a bit numb and everything around you goes quiet ... You lose all energy and question your will to live," she said.Ferrara was experiencing a form of <a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/new-earth-rangers-app-empowers-kids-and-parents-to-take-environmental-action-in-the-face-of-increasing-eco-anxiety-1028831078">so-called "eco-anxiety"</a> - a term that's officially been defined by the <a href="https://www.psychiatry.org/newsroom/news-releases/climate-poll-2020">American Psychiatric Association</a> (APA) ​​as "the chronic fear of environmental doom." She is among a growing number of people who have found that the rapidly declining state of the planet is impacting their mental health.<div type="image" title="New York City historic flooding" height="900" width="1200" msid="85946004" hostid="261"></div>According to the latest research, "eco-anxiety" is more present than ever.A recent <a href="https://www.climatechangecommunication.org/all/climate-change-in-the-american-mind-december-2020/">survey</a> published by Yale University found that more than 40% of Americans felt "helpless" about the state of the planet. <a href="https://www.psychiatry.org/newsroom/news-releases/climate-poll-2020#:~:text=21%2C%202020%20%E2%80%93%20More%20than%20two,out%20today%20from%20the%20American">And according to a 2020 poll by the APA,</a> more than half of Americans said they were somewhat or extremely anxious about the impact of climate change on their own mental health. <h2>The world is waking up to climate change</h2>"We've seen a growing number of people who are feeling an emotional response to what's happening by living in such a changing world," Leslie Davenport, a climate psychology consultant and therapist based in Tacoma, Washington, told Insider.Davenport said that part of the reason behind the rise of "eco-dread" is that more people are realizing "how much climate change is impacting us on a personal level."This summer alone, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/hurricane-ida-damage-1-million-homes-on-the-gulf-coast-2021-8?r=US&amp;IR=TIR=T">Hurricane Ida submerged entire homes in water,</a> much of Germany was <a href="https://www.insider.com/germany-belgium-flooding-death-toll-2021-7">destroyed by historic flooding</a>, and wildfires in southern Europe and North America <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/california-wildfire-crisis-getting-worse-climate-change-2019-10?r=US&amp;IR=TIR=T">displaced hundreds of people.</a>"It was easier in the past to keep climate change as somewhere off in the future, something happening somewhere else to somebody else ... But now, as the effects are on the rise, our responses are on the rise too," Davenport added.As a climate psychology consultant, Davenport works with clients who experience a whole spectrum of reactions to climate change. Some - like Ferrara - experience very strong physical sensations. They have difficulties breathing or feel like they're having a heart attack, she said.Others have more subtle symptoms - they cry randomly, can't sleep at night, or often feel irritable and on edge.<div type="image" title="wildfire" height="683" width="910" msid="85946005" hostid="261"></div>Her clients vary in age, although research shows that specifically younger generations feel distraught about the planet they're inheriting.A <a href="https://www.kff.org/report-section/the-kaiser-family-foundation-washington-post-climate-change-survey-main-findings/">Washington Post-Kaiser Family Foundation poll</a> from 2019 found that 57 percent of American teenagers said that climate change made them feel scared, while 52 percent said it made them angry. In 2019, climate activist Clover Hogan set up <a href="https://www.forceofnature.xyz/">Force of Nature</a>, which aims to tackle this. Her team teaches students aged 11-24 about the climate crisis to help them navigate their anxiety and realize their potential to get involved."At the end of the day, none of us are responsible or capable of solving the climate crisis alone. We're not capable of changing it overnight. Yet what we are capable of changing overnight, is our mindset," Hogan told Insider."If we can change the way that we think about the issues, if we can change the way that we respond to those emotions and rather than running away from them, hold space for them and think about the power of them to create change, the more empowered and agency we are going to feel."<div type="image" title="California climate strike" height="1336" width="1781" msid="85946006" hostid="261"></div>Ferrara has dealt with her climate-induced fears by channeling them into her own forms of activism.In 2011, she started <a href="https://www.facebook.com/278491945516389/posts/climate-collapse-or-the-mother-of-all-recessionslets-hope-we-dont-get-bothhttpms/10151654981494104/">a blog called "Climate Worrier,</a> made numerous podcasts about eco-anxiety, and is now teaching school children in Denmark about the climate and saving urban trees.Apart from a few exceptions, she has stopped flying and said she hasn't gotten a physical reaction from reading news headlines in years. "We need to be careful and open and kind when we are talking about the climate crisis and climate anxiety because we're often made to think that the problem lies with the individual, which makes it seem as though it's the individual's problem to fix," she said. "It is not."

If you feel that the world's environment is doomed after the raging summer of hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, you could be suffering from 'eco-anxiety'

When it comes to talking to children, many of us might instinctively simplify or even "dumb down" our language. But treating kids like they’re incapable of handling complexity can be more damaging than we realise. This practice, often labelled as "<keyword id="23912121" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="infantilisation" source="keywords">infantilisation</keyword>," stems from a form of age-based bias known as adultism, where society assumes that children lack the capability to engage meaningfully with complex issues. Yet, research increasingly suggests that children, if given the chance, can think critically, contribute insights, and show remarkable understanding — even on major topics like environmental ethics and social justice. <h2>Full-fledged citizens</h2>Infantilising children can have several negative consequences, including undermining their self-confidence, stifling independence, and causing emotional dependence. Natalie M. Fletcher, a philosophy professor, argues that infantilising children restricts their potential to become active contributors in society. "Children are full-fledged citizens and not just future members of society," she points out. She highlights that children often have valuable perspectives, particularly on issues like friendship, where their thoughts are sometimes more nuanced than adults’ because these relationships are central to their lives. In her work, Fletcher emphasises that denying children the chance to engage in thoughtful dialogue can lead to the exclusion of a valuable dimension of knowledge and understanding, limiting society as a whole. Encouraging philosophical dialogue in children can empower them to see themselves as agents of change rather than passive future citizens. <h2>Kids need complex conversations</h2>Infantilisation not only hinders mental and emotional development but also impacts children's ability to think independently. Experts warn that children constantly treated as incapable of handling complexity may struggle to develop essential skills like critical thinking and self-reliance. They might become overly dependent on authority figures, leading to low self-esteem and a reduced sense of autonomy as they mature. Encouraging children to express themselves and engage with challenging topics, on the other hand, supports their social and emotional growth, fostering resilience and independence. Additionally, infantilising children often stems from a desire to shield them from life’s complexities, particularly from “adult” topics like <keyword id="6361617" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-change" source="Orion">climate change</keyword>. Fletcher argues, however, that children should be allowed to discuss issues like environmental justice, as they are the ones who will ultimately inherit the outcomes of today’s decisions. Children dealing with eco-anxiety, for example, benefit from having open dialogues about environmental concerns, which helps them feel empowered rather than overwhelmed. <h2>Raising independent thinkers, not passive followers</h2>In Fletcher’s educational charity, Brila, children as young as five engage in philosophical discussions that promote critical thinking and active listening. This approach has been shown to help children view themselves as proactive thinkers. While parents may feel compelled to protect their kids from "too much too soon," providing age-appropriate explanations can prevent feelings of helplessness, giving kids the tools they need to become thoughtful, capable adults. As adults, fostering independence and <keyword id="23912120" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="critical-thinking-in-children" source="keywords">critical thinking in children</keyword> means embracing their ability to understand more than we may expect. Treating kids like the complex, capable individuals they are doesn't just support their growth — it strengthens society as a whole. Encouraging kids to share their thoughts and respecting their input can lead to a future generation that's better equipped to face and solve the challenges of tomorrow.

Talking to your child like they’re a kid? Here’s why you might be doing more harm than good

<ul><li>In recent years, Bhumi has stepped onto a bigger stage – one where the spotlight shines on environmental and climate awareness. </li><li>Acknowledging her efforts, the <keyword id="19984049" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="UNDP" source="keywords">UNDP</keyword> named her as India's first National Advocate for <keyword id="19950641" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sustainable-development-goals" source="keywords">Sustainable Development Goals</keyword> (SDGs).</li><li>In an exclusive interview with <keyword id="21390875" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Business-Insider-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Business Insider India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Business Insider India">Business Insider India</keyword>, <keyword id="19939209" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bhumi-Pednekar" source="keywords">Bhumi Pednekar</keyword> spoke about her struggles with eco-anxiety and her take on the <keyword id="20000756" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-action" source="keywords">climate action</keyword>.</li></ul> Lights, camera, Earth! When we first saw Bhumi Pednekar in Dum Laga Ke Haisha in 2015, we witnessed her impressive acting skills and her ability to connect with the audience. With time, she grew into a formidable presence on the Indian cinema landscape, paving the way for socially-aware, yet entertaining filmography. In recent years, this Bollywood superstar has stepped onto a bigger stage – one where the spotlight shines on environmental and climate awareness. In a world where the spotlight often blinds stars to the sufferings of the planet and its people, Bhumi reminds us that every person on this planet needs to keep that spark for eco-consciousness alive. In an exclusive interview with Business Insider India, Bhumi Pednekar spoke about her struggles with eco-anxiety during her early years, her efforts to strike a balance between her professional career and environmental responsibilities, her advice for the younger audience, and her take on the climate action across the globe. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDxplE0_Os4" data-type="tilCustomLink">Catch the full interview here!</a> <div type="image" title="Actress Bhumi Pednekar" agency="Business Insider India" msid="109502773" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Actress Bhumi Pednekar&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> “When I started my climate journey, it was a very lonely path for me, Every time I spoke about it, people made fun of me. Eventually, through the years, I met like-minded people, and I realised that this is a real problem. Even today, I get really worried, I have bouts of anxiety and go into a spiral that you know, what will happen now and so on. In such times, what truly helps me is to actually do something towards dealing with the problem,” says Bhumi. Acknowledging her efforts to spread awareness on these critical topics, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) named her as India's first National Advocate for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Just last month, the World Economic Forum (WEF) recognised her as a Young Global Leader (YGL). On <keyword id="21293562" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Earth-Day" source="keywords">Earth Day</keyword> 2024, she also joined UNDP’s global initiative called the ‘The Weather Kids’ — a global campaign to raise awareness about climate change and drive the world towards taking meaningful climate action. Talking about the campaign Bhumi Pednekar stated, "I’m deeply disturbed by Climate Change and the impact that it is having the world over. I have dedicated my life to working on this and helping raise awareness… I have always been committed to using my platform to raise awareness about the urgency of climate action and to empower individuals and communities to adopt sustainable practices. Together, we can make a difference and create a more sustainable and resilient world for future generations.” Further, Bhumi’s role as a <keyword id="21390874" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-warrior" source="keywords">climate warrior</keyword> has also seen her collaborating with activists and institutions nationwide, amplifying their voices and supporting initiatives focused on environmental preservation and climate action. As an ardent advocate for environmental and climate action, she has effectively utilised her fame to champion causes like waste segregation, rainwater harvesting, recycling, and conscious fashion choices. <div type="image" title="Actress Bhumi Pednekar" agency="Business Insider India" msid="109503174" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Actress Bhumi Pednekar&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> “Climate Warrior, which is our nonprofit, is an advocacy platform I started in 2019. The idea was to bring all the work of creating awareness under one umbrella. And then we started the Bhumi Foundation, through which we are again just trying to streamline everything that we do, we have not opened it up for others to come in and work,” said Bhumi, encouraging younger generations to also find their own tribe to influence and drive change. The theme for today’s World Earth Day 2024 is Planet Vs Plastic, and it is time for all of us to gauge our individual and collective impact on our environment and try to reduce it. “One big thing that we can do is to look for and support businesses that are trying to go green and create a positive impact on our planet. If investors support such businesses, and consumers pick such products, our carbon footprint can be lesser,” explains Bhumi. “Every day is Earth Day. This is our only home, there is no alternative, and there is no plan B! The way we show empathy and sympathy towards our loved ones, we should show empathy towards everybody else that we share this planet with. It really breaks my heart when you see on the news that a major city like Bangalore is still witnessing a water crisis and our capital city Delhi has winter days where schools are canceled because of the pollution. We are all in this together, we all are a part of the problem. And we all need to be a part of the solution as well,” concludes Bhumi. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed are of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of Business Insider India. The excerpts has been partly edited for length and clarity.

Earth Day 2024: Actress Bhumi talks about 'Pednekar ke ped', ostrich mentality, climate anxiety and more

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Psychiatrists in Germany have seen an increase in patients with tics. </li><li>They say this is being "caught" through <keyword id="11895013" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="social-media" source="Orion">social media</keyword>.</li><li>The term "mass social media-induced illness" has been developed to describe this phenomenon.</li></ul>Psychiatrists have identified a new "Tourette-like" illness being spread through <a href="https://www.insider.com/piper-rockelle-pink-bikini-instagram-tiffany-youtube-child-exploitation-9">social media</a>. The "mass social media-induced illness" (MSMI) - more traditionally called a mass sociogenic illness, but with a new term being created to fit the new condition - is causing people to develop tics "caught" from social media videos of people ticcing. A spike in patients presenting with functional tics has been attributed to the rise in social media content showing people ticcing, <a href="https://academic.oup.com/brain/advance-article/doi/10.1093/brain/awab316/6356504">a group of psychiatrists in Germany have found</a>. <a href="https://academic.oup.com/brain/advance-article/doi/10.1093/brain/awab316/6356504">The recent study</a> from experts at the Hanover Medical School, <a href="https://www.insider.com/17-alternative-places-you-should-visit-on-a-trip-to-germany-2019-2">Germany</a>, explains that an increase in patients struggling with tics is positively correlated to a proliferation of videos on <a href="https://www.insider.com/tiktok-home-tour-designer-chair-not-for-sitting-2021-9">TikTok</a>, Instagram, and <a href="https://www.insider.com/jeffree-star-james-charles-beauty-youtubers-popularity-2021-9">YouTube</a> of people presenting with Tourette's syndrome. The paper, published by the <a href="https://academic.oup.com/journals">Oxford University Press</a>, discusses the German internet fame of Jan Zimmermann, a YouTuber with 2.23 million subscribers on his channel Gewitter im Komf (Thunderstorm in Brain), who states he has Tourette's syndrome. The clue that this illness was being "caught" from social media was that the tics were identical to Zimmermann's. The mostly verbal tics included people saying "heil Hitler," "Du bist häßlich" (you are ugly) and "pommes" (chips). The study states that "a remarkably high number of young patients has been referred to our specialized Tourette outpatient clinic presenting with symptoms closely resembling the ones Jan Zimmermann shows in his videos."Crucially, however, the presented condition is not of Tourette's but functional tics, also known as Functional Movement Disorder. The primary difference between this "Tourette's-like" MSMI and Tourette's is the MSMI comes on very suddenly and often later in life (whereas Tourette's syndrome often onsets in early childhood), present as a countless range of tics - rather than a few specific ones - the study explains.The tics are prone to be mimicked and can be "caught" from one person to another - even in the traditional form of the condition. This is why social media is posing a new-age problem. The study notes that whilst this is a sociogenic illness - and recommendations from psychiatrists do state you should seek medical support for this should it become difficult to manage - it could also be exacerbated by a "culture-bound stress reaction" to COVID-19 and eco-anxiety. The study raises concern for how this may put <keyword id="11894571" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="health" source="Orion">health</keyword> services under strain from the pandemic and long waiting lists for treatment.

You Searched For "ecoanxiety" and got 4 results

If you feel that the world's environment is doomed after the raging summer of hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, you could be suffering from 'eco-anxiety'

Sophia Ankel

Talking to your child like they’re a kid? Here’s why you might be doing more harm than good

BI India Bureau

Earth Day 2024: Actress Bhumi talks about 'Pednekar ke ped', ostrich mentality, climate anxiety and more

Deekshith Pinto

Psychiatrists have discovered that patients with tics have 'caught' a 'Tourette's-like' illness from social media

Bethany Dawson

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