How Climate Restoration Solves Climate Anxiety
- Mimi Doyle
- May 1, 2025
- 3 min read
Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt personally victimized by the climate crisis.
Yeah, same. Whether it’s doomscrolling through wildfire footage, spiraling over melting glaciers at 2 a.m., or getting really nervous whenever someone mentions "global warming", climate anxiety is a issue that effects millions of people world wide. But here’s the thing: while reducing emissions and aiming for net zero is important, stopping there isn’t enough. We need to restore the climate to the safe and healthy state our grandparents once knew. That’s where climate restoration comes in.
Climate anxiety is the fear and distress about climate change and its impact on our lives and futures. For young people, it feels like inheriting a broken system we don't know and never wanted to fix. But here’s the hopeful part: climate restoration doesn't stop at the bare minimum—it’s about repairing the damage and creating a thriving future. Think; removing excess carbon from the atmosphere, restoring ecosystems, and protecting our planet’s natural balance.
Just like there are tools to manage anxiety (breathing exercises, mindfulness, therapy), there are tools to manage climate anxiety– and climate restoration is one of them. It’s proof that solutions are already on the table...
SPEND TIME IN NATURE
It is no secret that we get mad at our parents when they say all our problems come from “that darn phone,” but it is a reasonable conclusion. Don’t shoot the messenger; get off your cell phone! While social media can be a helpful tool in getting news out to younger generations, too much of it can amplify immense anxiety.
We're bombarded daily with alarming headlines about wildfires, rising sea levels, and record-breaking heat waves. Steady exposure to social media fuels a deep sense of climate anxiety, where the fear of environmental collapse becomes a daily emotional burden.
In contrast to popular belief, spending time outdoors is vital in managing your stress about climate change. Just seeing the breathtaking scenery of the mountains or taking a trip to the ocean will allow your body and mind to feel instantly at peace. Whether it be the fresh air or the sun warming your skin, getting out of the house and off your screen will help you organize your thoughts and help you be in the right headspace to take the next step.
STAY INFORMED
From innovative technologies that remove carbon dioxide to grassroots efforts reviving coral reefs and forests, people are already rolling up their sleeves. Organizations like the Foundation for Climate Restoration (F4CR) are pushing this vision forward.
Make sure you are receiving credible information, and conduct your own fact-checking as well. To make sure a source on climate change is credible:
Who wrote it?-- Reliable sources usually come from scientists, universities, or well-known environmental organizations.
Look for evidence, like data, citations, or links to peer-reviewed research. Be cautious of websites that use extreme language, lack sources, or have a clear political or financial agenda.
Finally, cross-check the information with trusted outlets like NASA, the IPCC, or F4CR!
Don’t keep this information to yourself– share what you find with your friends and family!
AND FINALLY... TAKE ACTION!
Waiting for the “right” moment won’t save the planet– and honestly, it’s already running late.
Whether it’s attending rallies, signing petitions or pledges (like the climate restoration pledge), or contacting representatives, taking action is crucial– because complacency and inaction can make climate anxiety feel even heavier. At the same time, facing such a global issue can be draining and demoralizing if you don’t make space for breaks and self-care.
The climate crisis has entered the chat… but so have you. Let’s make sure it doesn’t get the last word.
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