1) 360-Degree Emotions Approach (Emotions Party)

Eco-anxiety and anger are valid emotions, but they shouldn't dominate. A healthy emotional response to climate challenges involves embracing a range of emotions, including curiosity, hope, gratitude, and humor, to create an "emotions party" where all emotions play a role.

The “emotions party” metaphor suggests inviting a full range of emotions (hope, curiosity, humor, gratitude, alongside grief and anger) to the table. This balanced emotional response counters the tendency to get stuck in one negative emotion.

People can practice this by journaling or using tools like an "Emotions Wheel" to diversify their emotional responses to climate news. For example, appreciating small victories while grieving losses.

2) "Stop, Survey the Scene, Don’t Create Another Victim"

This metaphor from outdoor therapy is a brilliant analogy for climate action. It suggests thoughtful, measured action rather than impulsive responses that could worsen situations.

3) Climate Hostages

Many people feel trapped in systems where their individual actions seem insignificant due to structural barriers, like political inaction or economic systems. This term validates feelings of frustration and helplessness while encouraging individuals to find personal agency.

Recognizing systemic barriers helps individuals focus on what they can control, like local initiatives or voting for policies that align with their environmental values.

4) Scale Vertigo and Locating Yourself in Climate Action

Scale Vertigo is a term coined by environmental journalist Sarah Jaquette Ray, that refers to the disorientation caused by balancing knowledge of global climate issues with local actions. The solution: focus on your personal scale of influence (e.g., family, neighborhood, city) to regain clarity and purpose.

5) The News is Outside Your Door

A refreshing reminder to focus on immediate, tangible surroundings rather than being consumed by distant disasters reported in the media. It encourages grounding oneself in local realities to combat overwhelm and build actionable hope.

Taking time to notice and appreciate local nature (e.g., a backyard, park, or garden) can help people stay grounded and reduce anxiety caused by constant exposure to global events.