Navigating Climate Change: King’s University Course Addresses Grief and Hope | CBC News

Students at King’s University College in London are diving into a new perspective on climate change, focusing on its emotional impact. The course, called Climate Grief and Eco-Anxiety, explores how environmental shifts affect mental health.

The class, led by Eunice Gorman, an associate professor of thanatology, aims to bring awareness to feelings of grief and anxiety about climate issues. Gorman noted that a simple check-in revealed how heavy the topic rested on students’ minds. One student expressed it well: “The world is on fire. How do you think we’re doing?”

This course launched last year, and students engaged passionately. They produced creative projects like podcasts and videos discussing climate change. Gorman observed that while students are proactive—recycling and making eco-friendly choices—they feel frustrated by the lack of large-scale action from governments and corporations. This gap deepens their feelings of grief and anxiety.

Gorman emphasizes ending each session on a positive note. She incorporates stories about community initiatives and successful environmental efforts like reforestation and shifts toward sustainability. “I share ten things to worry about and ten things to be hopeful about,” she explained. “I want them to leave on a positive note.”

The diverse age range of students, from their 20s to 60s, enriches discussions. Gorman pointed out that grief is complex—physical, emotional, and cognitive—and varies greatly among individuals. While many feel sadness and anger, they’re also driven to take action, which is a source of hope for Gorman.

Recent studies bolster this conversation. Research from the American Psychological Association found that climate anxiety is a growing concern, especially among young people. In a survey, 70% of Generation Z reported feeling stressed about climate change and its consequences. Experts say that discussing these feelings, like in Gorman’s course, is crucial for mental health.

Overall, courses like Climate Grief and Eco-Anxiety help students process their emotions while offering a sense of community and shared purpose. By addressing both the challenges and hopeful stories in the fight against climate change, Gorman helps cultivate resilience among her students.

For more insights, the American Psychological Association offers valuable resources on managing eco-anxiety.

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