What was your “wake-up moment” when climate issues started to feel real for you?
I think it was seeing videos of floods and wildfires and realizing how quickly someone’s normal life could completely change. I started wondering what things would look like when I was older and whether those disasters would become even more common.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed, sad, or anxious about climate change? What brought on those feelings?
Definitely. Sometimes I’ll see a bunch of climate stories online at once, and it starts to feel overwhelming. I think about what the world will look like when I’m an adult and whether places I love will still be the same.
How do you cope with the emotions that come up when you think about the climate crisis?
I try not to spend too much time scrolling through bad news. Going outside, listening to music, or talking to my friends helps me get out of my own head.
Is there a place that makes you feel connected to the Earth?
There’s a trail near my house that I really like. I go there with my family sometimes, and being surrounded by trees makes everything feel quieter. It reminds me why protecting nature matters in the first place.
What are your self-care practices?
Music is probably my biggest one. I also like walking, watching something funny, and spending time with people who make me feel calm. Sometimes I need to remind myself that I don’t have to think about climate change every second.
