In recent years, many of us on the Sunshine Coast have noticed how conversations about climate change have become more urgent — and more personal. Whether it’s the increasing number of bushfires, floods, or heatwaves, or simply the uncertainty about what the future might hold, these changes are affecting not only our environment but also our mental and emotional wellbeing.
At Sunny Coast Counselling, we often see how these global issues can show up in very personal ways. Let’s take a look at how climate change can impact mental health, and what can help.
1. The Emotional Impact of Environmental Change
Many people experience what’s known as eco-anxiety — feelings of fear, helplessness or sadness about the state of the planet. It’s a normal and understandable response to being aware of environmental threats.
You might notice:
- A sense of grief or loss for the natural world
- Worry about the future for yourself, your children, or your community
- Feeling overwhelmed by bad news or uncertain about what you can do
These feelings can be particularly strong for people living close to nature, such as those in coastal or rural areas, where the impacts of climate change are more visible and immediate.
2. The Mental Toll of Climate Events
Extreme weather events — like floods, bushfires, or drought — can lead to trauma, stress, and loss. Even for those not directly affected, seeing images and hearing stories of such events can trigger distress, especially when they happen close to home.
After such experiences, it’s common to feel on edge, have difficulty sleeping, or feel a lingering sense of fear when certain weather patterns return. These are natural reactions to trauma, and support is available to help you process and recover.
3. Community and Identity Challenges
Our connection to place — beaches, forests, rivers — is a big part of our sense of identity and belonging. When these places change or are damaged, people often experience a deep emotional impact. Farmers, First Nations communities, and those working in tourism or fishing, for example, may feel particularly vulnerable to these shifts.
Climate change can also affect social connections: when communities experience repeated environmental stress, it can increase strain, displacement, or feelings of isolation.
4. Coping and Finding Meaning
While climate change is a large and complex issue, there are ways to care for your mental health and build resilience:
- Acknowledge your feelings – eco-anxiety and grief are valid emotions, not overreactions.
- Connect with others – talking about your concerns, joining local environmental or community groups, or simply sharing experiences can help reduce isolation.
- Focus on what’s in your control – small, meaningful actions like reducing waste, planting trees, or supporting local sustainability efforts can foster hope and agency.
- Take care of your wellbeing – maintain routines, spend time in nature, and seek professional support if your worries or stress feel overwhelming.
You’re Not Alone
Climate change can feel daunting, but you don’t have to face the emotional weight of it by yourself. At Sunny Coast Counselling, we provide a safe space to talk about your experiences, explore your feelings, and develop tools for coping and resilience — whether you’ve been directly affected by a climate event or are simply feeling anxious about the future.
If you’d like to talk to someone about how climate change is affecting you or your family, please reach out. Support is available, and change — both personal and collective — begins with care and connection.
You can book a counselling appointment here.