Looking after mental health, practising self-care and protecting the planet can often feel like a fine balance. Mental health is a serious issue in the UK and around the world; according to the Mental Health Foundation, depression is the second leading cause of disability globally, with 1 in 6 people each week suffering from a mental health issue. For many climate activists, the weight of the climate crisis can cause “eco-anxiety” or “climate anxiety”.
There are many triggers to poor mental health, from alarming environmental reports to stress brought on by home life and beyond. While there are many powerful treatments for major illness, one of the best non-medical measures for managing and preventing poor mental health is the simple act of self-care. Being kind to yourself doesn’t come as easily as it sounds to some of us fighting to save the planet, so how can you practice self-care in your own life?
The Power of ‘No’
Our stress levels and mental wellbeing are impacted in ways we don’t quite realise. For example, you might find yourself seeing friends and going to events on a regular basis, but occasionally feeling stressed by the prospect – a strange sensation, since seeing friends should be a positive experience… But it is entirely possible to run out of energy for social engagements and protests, continuing to do things you may not have the energy for can burn you out all the quicker.
With this in mind, it’s important to remember that you’re allowed to say ‘no’. If something sounds like effort, or not like your cup of tea, simply decline! You can also do this at work, within reason; you may be working hard, and in need of some reprieve. Declining additional workload is often more than okay, and can give you crucial breathing space.
Treat Yourself to Little Things
Of course, there are some ‘yes’es that you shouldn’t question too much – and indeed, some ‘no’s you might be telling yourself that could well be negatively affecting you. In tough economic times, it can feel hard to justify little luxuries here and there, especially if you are saving up for something else. But sometimes it really is the little things that help you through – whether ordering your favourite chocolate boxes or saying yes to a video game on offer – and it cannot hurt to listen to the inner child that wants a treat every so often.
Take Time in Nature
Self-care isn’t just the act of listening to your wants. It is also the act of addressing your needs, and sometimes doing something you don’t really ‘want’ to do can be exactly the thing you need. For example, you may be more inclined to spend a day lounging on the sofa or sleeping in late – when in fact, a morning or afternoon spent out in nature could work wonders for your mental health.
Indeed, the idea of using nature to rejuvenate your mental wellbeing has been given a name: forest bathing. The term originated in Japan in the 20th century, and has migrated to the West as a handy way of classifying the regenerative qualities of some quiet time spent in nature.
It is easy enough to practice, as well: simply pick a forest or woodland to which you can travel, turn off your phone and take a light walk through it. A combination of the fresh air, new sights and a walk free of distractions constitute a form of mindfulness exercise, and a great way to clear your head.
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A Guide to Eco-Anxiety outlines a manifesto for action, connection and hope. Showing how to harness anxiety for positive action, as well as effective ways to reduce your personal carbon footprint.
Photography by Kate Hliznitsova
