Worry

I can’t stop thinking about what will happen as a result of these climate predictions.

Worry can be a rational response to potential threats, but if it dwells repetitively on negative outcomes, it can also become overly strong rumination. Climate worry is very common and it is linked with a desire to make things better. It’s problematic if it leads to a tendency to focus on the worst possible outcomes.

Question: What level of worry is constructive, and when am I slipping into excessive rumination?

Action

Turn one worry into a next step

Choose one concern and ask what you can do about it today. Maybe you learn more, check on a neighbor during extreme heat, talk with your family about preparedness, or get involved with an issue in your community.
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Why worry shows up

Worry is your mind trying to prepare for something that matters to you. With climate change, there are many unknowns. Learning what you can control—and what you cannot—can help keep worry from taking over.
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Learn

See where worry can lead

Worry can sometimes be the beginning of action. Other young people have turned concern about their families, neighborhoods, animals, or futures into learning, conversations, projects, and stronger connections with others.

Stories

Hear some 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.

In Crisis? Get Support

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