Eco-Anxiety: When the Climate Crisis Triggers Widespread Anxiety

Floods, droughts, wildfires, and heatwaves are leaving more than just physical destruction in their wake. The climate crisis is also triggering psychological anxiety experienced by an increasing number of people, particularly the younger generation who are constantly shadowed by future uncertainty.

This phenomenon is known as eco-anxiety, a condition where individuals experience worry, fear, or even feelings of despair due to the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation. In recent years, psychologists have increasingly used this term to describe the psychological impact of the climate crisis, which is becoming more tangible across various parts of the world.

Climate change is no longer a future threat. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has noted that recent years have been the hottest period in modern recorded history. Extreme heatwaves have struck Europe, massive wildfires have occurred in Canada and Australia, while floods and droughts are becoming more frequent in various countries, including Indonesia.

Amidst the heavy flow of information regarding the environmental crisis, many people are beginning to feel deep anxiety regarding the worsening condition of the Earth. This concern arises not only among those directly affected by disasters but also among the public who are daily exposed to news regarding climate change.