School TV – Eco-Anxiety

The media coverage of climate change activist, Greta Thunberg, not only helped raise awareness of this issue, but it has also instilled fear in many young people. Children around the world are feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of the issue. They are getting caught up in a doomsday scenario and collective hysteria that is causing, what is now termed as ‘eco-anxiety’.

Anecdotal reports suggest that children of all ages, even pre-schoolers, are being treated for eco-anxiety by healthcare professionals and psychologists fear that this may lead to a learned helplessness or hopelessness.

As parents and care-givers, it is important to understand how best to diffuse a child’s anxiety relating to impending environmental disasters. Discussing the known facts and instilling hope will give children a clear vision for a positive future. Reassurance about what countries and individuals are doing, and what you can do as a family, will go towards helping curb the effects of eco-anxiety.

In this Special Report, parents and care givers will be provided with strategies on how to approach conversations on environmental issues that are age appropriate. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report https://fortstreet.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/eco-anxiety