A silhouette of a lone fisherman under a pier.

Eco-anxiety support

Ffind links to organisations that may be able to offer further support to those affected by eco-anxiety, and opportunities to connect with like-minded people.

    Support channels

    Sometimes eco-anxiety can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. If you or someone you know requires further help, please consider contacting the organisations below.

    Samaritans

    A UK-based support line, open 24/7 and free to call on 116 123. You can also email or write to them, or download their self-help app. Find out more on the Samaritans website.

    Climate Psychology Alliance

    Advice and therapeutic support for individuals struggling with eco-anxiety. Find more information on the Climate Psychology Alliance website.

    Ocean Optimism

    Marine conservation success stories that focus on solutions rather than problems, and connections rather than difference. Check out the Ocean Optimism website.

     

    A man wearing a Marine Conservation Society t-shirt and orange swimming shorts walking into open water on a beach. His back is to the cameraand he is holding a net.

    A man wearing a Marine Conservation Society t-shirt and orange swimming shorts walking into open water on a beach for plankon sampling.  |  Image credit: Adj Brown

    You are not alone in feeling anxious. But in spite of everything, there is still so much beauty and so many conservation success stories to be celebrated.

    Share and connect

    One of the best ways to combat eco-anxiety is to restore a sense of hope by connecting with a wider community of like-minded people.

    You can do this by joining conservation groups, litter picks or beach cleans in your local area.

    Find out about local events and groups, volunteering opportunities and ways to connect online:

    2 women laughing together on a beach.

    2 beach clean volunteers laughing together  |  Image credit: Matthew Johnstone

    Share what inspires you about marine conservation on social media using the hashtag #OceanOptimism.

    Support each other

    Sometimes, talking to a friend or relative can be the best remedy. By supporting and celebrating each other, we can make our love for the ocean a more powerful driver than our worries and fears.

    What has helped you most in combatting eco-anxiety? How have you channelled your love for the ocean into marine conservation action?

    Can you reach out and share this with a friend or relative?

    This project is funded by the Government's Green Recovery Challenge Fund. The fund was developed by Defra and its Arm's-Length Bodies. It is being delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with Natural England, the Environment Agency and Forestry Commission.

    Green Recovery Challenge Fund

    Co-funded by the European Union.