Melody Irvine
Growing up in Missoula, snow days were a highlight. But this winter, a lack of snow and unusually warm weather have left me feeling down. It’s a stark reminder of how much our climate is shifting.
Many people, including my partner and me, are feeling seasonal sadness—not from the usual dark, cold days, but from the sunny warmth that no longer feels right. The impacts of climate change weigh heavily on my mind, affecting my mood and stirring up memories of childhood traditions that are fading away.
I never expected to explore how climate change impacts mental health in my education or career. As a freshman at the University of Montana, I just wanted to help people and enjoy the environment I love. Yet, climate action felt overwhelming and distant until I realized that my skills could contribute to the climate conversation.
Inspired by my feelings and a course on well-being, I created a mock climate emotions support group for a class project. This concept grew into an undergraduate thesis, combining social work tools with the pressing need for emotional support during climate crises. My goal was to spark meaningful conversations in our community.
After months of preparation, I got approval for “Support Group for Climate Emotions: A Pilot Feasibility Study” in Missoula. This was a first-of-its-kind project aimed at addressing the mental health effects of climate change directly. The results reinforced something crucial: there are effective ways to support mental health in the face of these challenges.
The group was for college students aged 18-24, who often report higher levels of climate distress. We held six sessions with four dedicated participants. Rather than just talking about climate issues, we focused on building coping skills. By sharing personal stories and engaging in activities to process our feelings, participants felt a sense of connection and belonging. One said, “I feel a sense of belonging about the subject that I have not had before.”
We created a guide for others to run similar groups, making this approach accessible for anyone interested in facilitating discussions on climate emotions. Data shows that young adults are increasingly anxious about climate issues, with 68% of respondents in a recent survey expressing concern about the future of the planet.
This pilot study aligns with our community’s goals at Climate Ready Missoula. We aim to raise awareness about the mental health impacts of climate change—including issues from wildfires and agricultural vulnerabilities. By encouraging peer support, we can incorporate emotional resilience into broader climate strategies.
Though our focus was on young adults, the need for emotional support spans all ages. Creating spaces for open discussions around these feelings is vital. Organizations like Families for a Livable Climate and Climate Smart Missoula are working to provide more support in this area.
Whether through formal groups or simple conversations with friends, sharing how climate change affects our well-being is an important part of healing. Often, we find we’re not alone in this struggle. Building a resilient community where we can express our emotions is essential for collective hope and action.
As I reflect on this winter’s minimal snowpack, I remind myself that I’m not alone in my worries. There are coping skills I can use to manage these feelings. This project has taught me that everyone can play a part in addressing climate issues, and I’m excited to carry this work into my Masters of Social Work.
For more insights and resources, you can explore the full report and group guide here. Additionally, check out Climate Smart Missoula’s mental health resources for more information on coping with climate-related emotions.
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