How can educators address eco-anxiety in the classroom?

What is eco-anxiety? 

Eco-anxiety isn't classified as a psychological disorder. Many doctors and psychologists consider it a natural - and healthy - reaction to awareness of ongoing and future climate changes (Office for Climate Education 2024).The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as "a condition in which someone feels frightened or very worried about climate change." The American Psychological Association describes it more intensely as "a chronic fear of environmental doom." 

How can you address eco-anxiety in the classroom? 

Education for Sustainability helps students cope with uncertainty by fostering openness, flexibility, and resilience, while also offering what's been called "critical hope" - the encouragement needed to sustain motivation and future-oriented thinking. You can help students navigate these feelings by creating learning environments that are supportive but also "brave spaces” where students can confront uncomfortable realities while developing the resilience and agency they need to respond. 

• Acknowledge feelings: Create space for students to express their emotions about the climate crisis without judgement. Naming feelings helps students recognize they're not alone in their concerns.

• Focus on solutions: Emphasize positive actions and encourage students to explore real-world solutions rather than dwelling solely on problems. Help them see where change is already happening. 
• Promote agency through small actions: Highlight manageable steps students can take to build a sense of control, rather than pressuring them toward perfection or overwhelming lifestyle changes.
• Connect with nature: Take students outdoors when possible, or bring nature into the classroom. Contact with the natural world supports wellbeing and can shift perspective from abstract threat to tangible connection. 
• Turn anxiety into action: Help students channel concern into collective, goal-oriented activities. Working with others toward shared goals builds empowerment and reduces isolation. 

LSE dialogue on eco-anxiety with Dr Bill Sheate 

Dr Bill Sheate joined the LSE Education for Sustainability Network meeting in 2021 to discuss eco-anxiety and its implications for teaching and learning. Watch the session (discussion begins at 26:00) or view the slides.  

With a background as an ecologist and decades of experience in environmental policy and assessment, Bill now works as a cognitive psychology practitioner specializing in eco-anxiety and eco-distress. He runs innovative programmes on relaxation, resilience, and mindful learning in academic and professional settings. Learn more about Imagination Therapy here.