On Wednesday, March 8, 2023, UL Student Sustainability member Matthew Murray spearheaded a transformative workshop titled "Mapping Your Eco-Anxiety." This innovative session aimed to empower students with the tools and strategies to effectively assess and manage climate change-related anxieties.
In today's world, climate change has become a source of significant concern for many individuals, leading to what is often termed as "eco-anxiety." This psychological phenomenon encompasses feelings of fear, stress, or helplessness in response to environmental issues. Recognising the importance of addressing these emotions, Matthew designed and implemented the workshop to provide students with practical insights and coping mechanisms.
"Mapping Your Eco-Anxiety" encouraged participants to explore and visualise their climate concerns through various activities and discussions. By mapping out their specific anxieties and identifying underlying triggers, students gained a deeper understanding of their emotional responses to climate change. Through guided exercises and group reflections, participants learned to develop resilience and adaptive strategies for managing eco-anxiety in their daily lives.
Matthew's initiative underscores the commitment of UL Student Sustainability to promote holistic well-being and environmental consciousness among students. By addressing the psychological impacts of climate change, the workshop fostered a supportive community where individuals could openly discuss their concerns and support one another in navigating environmental challenges.
As participants left the workshop, they carried with them not only a heightened awareness of eco-anxiety but also a sense of empowerment and resilience. Equipped with practical tools and a supportive network, students were better prepared to engage with climate action and contribute positively to sustainability efforts.
"Mapping Your Eco-Anxiety" exemplifies UL Student Sustainability's dedication to fostering a culture of mindfulness and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Through initiatives like this, the organization continues to inspire and empower students to become effective advocates for a more sustainable future.
Student Sustainability has a wide array of events taking place every week, from panel discussions and debates, to workshops and guest speakers. These events are accessible for all UL students, and cover a variety of sustainability topics. See our past and current events here, and be sure to keep up to date with any available opportunities on our social media: Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.