What will you remember the summer of 2021 for? There is a tangible buzz in our world at the moment in response to everything that has happened since 2020. One thing is the unrelenting heat. This summer has been marked as the US’ hottest in history. Everyone is being impacted by the climate shifts we are currently experiencing. No matter if you follow the news, have noticed your grocery bill has gone up, pay more to cool your home, or have been affected by the devastating weather events all over the world, the evidence is undeniable. 

Many people are experiencing anxiety specifically surrounding the dread of what’s to come and this climate anxiety has led to a level of hopelessness and despair that is hard to manage. Fires, hurricanes and heat waves all carry the risk of trauma and depression that accompany disasters.

So how can we handle it, and get back some semblance of control in a world that seems to be going off the rails? What if “the very thing that fuels your anxiety — your imagination — may also be your most powerful tool to overcome it”? In other words, take action. It starts with doing what we can to manage the world we live in and influence every day. It starts in your own house, backyard, and at work. Connection to other people is key and action can be the antidote. 

If you are looking to make a difference in your own life or the lives of others, try some of the ideas listed below

- Help stem the blood shortage

- Good Grief Network’s

- Line dry a load of laundry

- Use LED lights

- Compost food waste

- Attend an educational program related to helping the environment

Anxiety of all sorts can be disruptive. The Ohio State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is here to help. Reach out to us at 800-678-6265 or EAP@osumc.edu to get linked with a therapist. 

image credit: istockphoto.com