Climate change affects our mental health in serious ways, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. One term capturing these feelings is eco-anxiety. It refers to the constant worry about the environment and the future. Studies show that eco-anxiety can arise from concerns about the future, empathy for those impacted, and frustration over the changes we can’t control (Mento et al., 2023).
People living in areas hit hardest by climate change, like floods and droughts, are especially vulnerable to eco-anxiety (Cianconi et al., 2020). Research indicates that those experiencing climate-related events often face psychological distress, leading to higher rates of mental health issues, hospitalizations, and even suicide (Charlson et al., 2021). Groups such as Indigenous people, children, and the elderly are particularly at risk (White et al., 2023).
Australian author Charlotte McConaghy explores these themes in her novel, Wild Dark Shore. Set on a remote island facing climate destruction, the characters grapple with eco-anxiety daily. I asked her about her views on this topic and how we can cope with such feelings.
Q: In your book, eco-anxiety is a significant theme. How does it appear in your characters?
CM: The characters in Wild Dark Shore confront an environmental disaster. Their home is eroding due to rising sea levels. This reality weighs heavily on their minds. Dom, the father, feels anxiety for his kids’ safety. His anguish also stems from past trauma, and he copes by talking to his deceased wife. Raff, the oldest child, wrestles with anger without healthy outlets, while Fen, the daughter, isolates herself on a quiet beach, trying to find solace. Rowan, the main character, struggles with grief after losing her home to a wildfire. The youngest, Orly, clings to his love for plants, understanding the threats they face. Each character represents how climate change can deeply affect mental health.
Q: What are your thoughts on how climate change impacts mental health?
CM: The effects of climate change aren’t distant; they’re happening right now. Disasters like fires and floods create real psychological stress. We must confront these issues. Writing about them, I hope to help others feel less alone in their fears. It’s essential to acknowledge our anxiety, but we also need art and stories to inspire change and hope.
Q: How did writing this novel change you?
CM: Writing Wild Dark Shore gave me a chance to confront my fears about climate change. I tried to name my anxieties concerning loss—whether it’s of home or loved ones. The characters reflect pieces of my feelings. Writing helped me process these thoughts, and now I’m ready to explore new stories.
Q: What do you hope readers take from this book?
CM: I want readers to find comfort in tough times. Even when the world feels dark, love is what matters most. I hope they reflect on the beautiful aspects of nature that still exist and consider their own impact on the environment. I want them to connect with the characters and appreciate the unique world of Shearwater Island.
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