In a world where the effects of climate change are increasingly visible and tangible, ecoanxiety - a chronic fear linked to the possibility of experiencing environmental disasters - has become a reality for many. This anxiety can be associated with a wide range of emotions, including fear, anger, exhaustion, helplessness, a sense of loss and even phobia and despair.
In light of this reality, we are pleased to announce the launch of a new tool entitled Managing Ecoanxiety: Mobilizing employees for action. The tool is now available to all Global-Watch affiliated employers, and contains practical tips for acting on your employees' ecoanxiety.
Ecoanxiety: A growing challenge in the workplace
New tool available for Global-Watch affiliates
The effects of climate change are increasingly visible and tangible on the planet. These significant changes can cause psychological distress in the form of ecoanxiety, a chronic fear linked to the possibility of environmental disasters. This anxiety can be accompanied by a wide range of emotions, including fear, anger, exhaustion, helplessness, a sense of loss and even phobia and despair.
As a human resources professional, it can be difficult to know how to support or intervene with employees experiencing climate change-related issues. It is increasingly recognized that eco-anxiety can be overcome through action, whereas rumination and paralyzing anxiety impair health.
Employees can be given the opportunity to get involved in voluntary action focused on environmental projects, whether through direct or indirect help. Sometimes people want to get involved, but don't know where to start. Why not give a platform to external or internal initiatives to expose employees to the options available to them?
To ensure the success of your approach, involve employees as often and as early as possible. Validate their feelings about climate issues, but encourage them to take action. Be open to ideas, projects and initiatives within work teams. Identify positive leaders among employees and give them a voice. Inform, inform, inform!
