I feel deep sadness about bird flu and environmental loss. Is this normal?
Grief is an understandable response to witnessing harm to places and species that matter to us.
The H5N1 strain of bird flu has once again threatened Australia's beloved animals, prompting concerns about further ecological loss. Rare and threatened species are particularly worrisome for scientists who are bracing for another wave of harm. This news, alongside other environmental disasters like algal blooms, coral bleaching, floods, and fires, can be overwhelming for many people.
Ecological grief is a normal reaction to witnessing harm to places and species that matter to us. It encompasses a range of emotions such as sadness, anger, and concern. However, it can also coexist with feelings of awe, pride, belonging, and care. Grief is often rooted in personal connections to places and species, making it deeply personal and complex.
Supporting one's feelings and finding connection amidst ecological loss is crucial. Grief literacy, or the ability to understand and process grief, can be developed through talking to others with similar feelings, spending time in restorative places, or creating art. In Australia, organizations like Psychology for a Safe Climate offer support through climate cafes and professional services. Indigenous peoples' knowledge and practices also provide valuable insights into coping with environmental changes.
To navigate these overwhelming emotions, it's essential to recognize and validate our feelings, take breaks when needed, and engage in activities that bring us joy and connection to nature. This might mean resting, spending time in natural settings, or participating in creative projects to honor our losses. By fostering grief literacy and building supportive communities, we can better navigate the complex emotions surrounding environmental loss.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written; read the original for the full account.