Panic

We’re doomed!

Panic is a strong fear reaction. In relation to climate work, the challenge is to remain aware of the urgency while maintaining power to choose options.

When urgency turns into panic, it’s crucial to tune into one’s internal sensory input–such as breathing, awareness of the body in space–to come back into the present moment.

Question: How to calm down and balance urgency with effective responses?

Action

Come back to right now

When panic hits, focus on what is around you. Take a few slow breaths, step outside, text someone you trust, or put your phone down for a while. You can decide what action to take once your body feels calmer.

Why panic happens

Climate news can make threats feel immediate, even when you are safe in the present moment. Your body may respond with a racing heart, tense muscles, or fast thoughts. Understanding that response can help you work through it.

Learn

Hear how others cope

Climate panic can feel intense and isolating, but other people experience it too. Young people have found ways to slow down, reconnect with the present, and talk about what scares them instead of holding it inside.

Stories

The Weather Within is not a crisis service, but support is available. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

If you need immediate emotional support, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text HOME or HOLA to 741741 to connect with a trained volunteer Crisis Counselor through Crisis Text Line. Support is available 24/7.

Help us make The Weather Within better.

Have 1–2 minutes? Share your thoughts in a quick 10-question survey. Your feedback will help us improve the site for young people like you, and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a gift card.