The Weight of the World

Record heat waves. Melting ice caps. Species extinction. Wildfires consuming entire towns. The climate news is relentless, and for many Gen Zers, it is a constant background anxiety that colors everything. Climate anxiety is not irrational — it is a rational response to an existential threat. But paralysis helps no one.

The Doom Scrolling Trap

Staying informed is important. Consuming every climate disaster story is not. Doom scrolling creates learned helplessness — the belief that nothing can be done, so why bother trying? This is exactly what prevents action.

Set boundaries. Check climate news once a day, not constantly. Focus on solutions journalism — stories about people actually addressing the crisis — not just disaster porn.

Individual Action Actually Matters

Yes, corporations and governments bear the most responsibility. But individual choices aggregate into cultural and political pressure. Reducing meat consumption, flying less, using public transit, and voting for climate-focused candidates all contribute.

More importantly, individual action combats helplessness. Doing something — anything — reminds you that you are not powerless. That psychological shift matters.

Find Your Role

Not everyone needs to be a climate activist. Some people advance the transition through their careers — engineering, policy, journalism, education. Others support the movement with donations, voting, and community organizing. Find your place in the ecosystem.

Protect Your Mental Health

You cannot save the planet if you are burned out. Climate work is a marathon, not a sprint. Build sustainable habits, take breaks when needed, and remember that despair is the only guaranteed way to fail.