In the face of our escalating climate change crisis, our clients, particularly young adults, are grappling with a myriad of emotions – anxiety, anger, loss, despair, and existential confusion. The absence of easy solutions exacerbates demoralization and burnout. And it’s further amplified by sensational media coverage of extreme weather events and global warming.
The chronic and intricate nature of the climate change crisis weighs heavily on our collective psyche, causing widespread climate anxiety. On one hand, it triggers psychological defenses to cope with overwhelming stressors. But it can also foster altruism, compassion, and a sense of purpose as communities unite to confront the challenges of a rapidly changing climate.
Enter Climate Psychology, a discipline that delves into the causalities and mental health implications of climate change. Led by Dr. Barbara Easterlin, Co-President of the Climate Psychology Alliance of North America, this online course navigates the emotional responses elicited by climate anxiety. It also elucidates the pivotal role of psychology in crafting coping strategies, inciting effective action, and nurturing resilience through practices like mindfulness and emotional regulation.
As mental health practitioners, our unique ability to facilitate difficult conversations equips us with a crucial role in addressing the psychological and cognitive dimensions of climate change. By understanding the intersection between climate change and mental health, we can leverage appropriate tools to confront these challenges head-on. And we can empower our clients to overcome climate anxiety and promote sustainability practices.
Together, we’ll uncover the psychological barriers hindering engagement with climate issues and explore the intertwined realms of mental health and environmental justice. You’ll also gain insights into addressing climate anxiety within the consultation room and fostering a safe space for clients to process their emotions. Plus, you’ll learn how to equip them with the skills they need to take meaningful action in their lives.
Join us on this enlightening journey toward understanding and navigating the psychological complexities of the climate change crisis. Together, let’s cultivate resilience and inspire positive change in the face of adversity!
Learning Objectives:
Identify and understand emotional responses to the climate crisis.
Develop coping strategies and resilience skills.
Apply psychological tools to address climate-related challenges.
This is NOT a CPA-NA event. Please reach out to the organizers above with any questions.