New Study Reveals Explosive Growth of Climate Anxiety Groups: How One Small Community is Leading the Charge

Finding Solace in Nature: Climate Cafes on the Rise

In a quiet urban farm in Reno, a small group gathers, led by Melissa Gilbert, who uses a meditation bowl to create a calming atmosphere. As the bowl rings, she encourages participants to focus on their breath and the earth beneath them, surrounded by the soothing sounds of clucking chickens and rustling leaves.

Gilbert guides the group along gravel paths lined with rows of carrots, kale, and garlic. Her message is clear: connect with the earth and let it ground you. This is the third climate cafe she has hosted with Caitlyn Wallace, a certified therapist trained by the Climate Psychology Alliance North America.

“The need arose from my work with new moms feeling guilty about bringing kids into a world facing extreme weather,” Wallace explains. She aims to provide a space for everyone to express their fears about climate change, from extreme heat waves to devastating wildfires.

Jaline Castell, deeply affected by the 2021 Caldor Fire, finds solace in these gatherings. “Being engulfed in smoke for weeks changes you,” she shares, her voice trembling. Castell is one of the many who benefit from these supportive environments.

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Shared Experiences and Coping Mechanisms

Nikki Raffail, another participant, grapples with the question, “Do I want to bring a child into this world?” She channels her energy into babysitting and gardening. “Tending to my sunflower when everything feels out of control brings peace,” Raffail says, smiling through her anxiety.

Sherry Lugone, a retired teacher, spent years feeling angry about climate change. Now, she focuses on reducing her carbon footprint. “I use cloth napkins, drive only when necessary, and eat an environmentally conscious diet,” she explains, showcasing her commitment to sustainable living.

According to Barbara Easterlin, co-president of the Climate Psychology Alliance North America, the goal is not to force action but to naturally inspire it. “People leave feeling empowered, realizing they can set an example for others,” she observes.

Key outcomes of these climate cafes include:

• Enhanced emotional support among participants.
• An increased sense of community and shared purpose.
• Spontaneous transition from feelings to actionable steps.

Research and Expansion Efforts

The alliance is launching a program to study how often climate cafes lead to action. They plan to extend these support groups to marginalized communities that often bear the brunt of climate change, providing crucial emotional outlets in underserved areas.

“There’s a growing sense of betrayal by governments and global systems,” Easterlin notes. She believes these feelings of distrust can be channeled into positive community-driven efforts.

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Back in Reno, the mood shifts from somber to hopeful as the climate cafe session concludes. Laughter and warm smiles replace earlier tears, demonstrating the powerful impact of these gatherings.

Therapist Caitlyn Wallace underscores the importance of such support groups. “Ultimately, it’s us who will save ourselves. We will show up, feed, and care for each other when larger systems fail,” she asserts.

Looking Forward: Upcoming Events

Wallace and Gilbert are set to lead their next climate cafe on Aug. 18 at the Reno Food Systems farm. Participation remains free, inviting more people to join and find their own paths to coping with climate anxiety.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Mountain West News Bureau, supported by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and various regional affiliates. Their mission is to shed light on personal and community stories that inspire hope and action in the face of climate challenges.

As more people realize the importance of these support groups, the movement is expected to grow, creating a ripple effect of positive change across communities.

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