Contributor Dr. Elise Herman
We are hearing and reading a lot about climate change and our kids are getting lots of exposure to this topic, too. The terms “eco-anxiety” and “climate change grief” refer to the psychological effects- feelings of worry, fear, despair, and hopelessness- that can develop with awareness of the realities of climate change including more extreme weather, increased heat, wildfires, and loss of biodiversity. There are steps we can take to help our kids be more resilient in the face of climate change and help ourselves cope at the same time.
Decreasing your own and your children’s exposure to media, especially media that is sensationalistic, is very important. There is a fine line between being informed and being overwhelmed—our kids feel it, too. Don’t have the news on (radio or TV) a lot, and don’t constantly refresh your online news source. There are media sites such as Earth Rangers which can give information that is more positive, such as what steps are being taken to combat climate change. The National Geographic Kids website explains this issue in a developmentally appropriate way while offering steps kids and parents can take together to help, even in small ways. The documentary show “An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet” on Apple Plus explores people, traditions, and ideas which foster optimism in the face of climate change. Look for books that explain climate change in age-appropriate ways and offer a hopeful outlook. Books that show kids as the ones coming up with some solutions and creating positive change are particularly empowering.
When discussing climate change, ask your child what they have heard and believe. Ask open-ended questions to encourage a conversation. What do their friends think? How are their teachers approaching climate change education? Don’t be afraid to discuss negative environmental stories (wildfires, etc.) and how they are feeling while reassuring them that they are safe. Validate your child’s emotions and response and share some of your own. You may be able to dispel some alarming misconceptions right up front. The bleak and scary possibilities may not come to pass; it is important to leave room for hope and to discuss what positive steps are being taken. Point out some ‘climate victories’ such as more electric vehicles and increasing use of solar and wind power. Knowing that scientists, governments, and environmental organizations are working together to combat climate change can be reassuring.
Encourage a positive mindset and take positive actions. When your child sees you driving less, being mindful with water use, and aiming to conserve energy, you are being a good role model. Find things you can do together—buy less, especially things encased in single-use plastic; consider a more plant-based diet; try to walk and bike instead of driving if possible, at times. Your child may be able to work with their school to help it be more eco-friendly perhaps by decreasing unused food waste, eliminating plastic straw use, or recycling, for example. You can become active with an environmental group or even help your child start one at school. Earth rangers.com has a free club portion geared towards kids with great ideas for your child to take action. Older kids may enjoy sites such as earth.org which highlight young adults making a difference through climate change activism.
Both parents and kids benefit from time in nature, which is known to improve mental and physical health. Getting outside regularly builds connection and a sense of responsibility to nature, as does showing gratitude, especially for the beauty here in Eastern Washington. Do things that help our local environment-plant trees, have a garden, scatter native wildflower seeds. These actions inspire hope and increase a sense of stewardship for the planet. Kids can feel powerless but listening to them and taking action together, even in seemingly small ways, can give them (and us!) a sense of optimism and control. Do consider talking with your child’s healthcare provider or counselor if you note persistent or severe feelings of anxiety or depression related to climate change.
Resources
http://www.natgeokids.com/uk/parents/eco-anxiety-guide-for-parents/
more about The contributor
Dr. Elise Herman
Dr. Herman is passionate about community health outreach, school programs, and child/family health and wellness. She has more than 31 years of experience as a pediatrician in Ellensburg, Washington, the last 3 with KVH Pediatrics. In 2022 Dr. Herman mostly retired from practice and continues to contribute blog posts and remain a visible advocate for kids in the community.