By Berra Güneş
Climate change and environmental issues often affect us in ways we can’t directly name or even notice. Sometimes it’s easier to talk about, and reflect on concerns that are directly tied to human experiences—such as war, gender inequality, racism, ableism, and similar issues. These are topics where the harm and anxiety they cause feel immediate and tangible, making it more natural to observe their impact and express our thoughts about them.
However, when it comes to the environment, the damage to nature, the changes in ecosystems, and their emotional and physical effects on us often don’t feel like a priority. Many of us don’t even stop to think about how these changes influence our lives. And yet, we all face climate change, environmental destruction, and ecological challenges daily, whether we realize it or not.
Something as seemingly small as cigarette butts or discarded plastic containers we see while walking to work in the morning can affect us. The unpredictability of the weather, the noticeable shifts in the climate compared to what we knew in the past, and the constant apocalyptic headlines about depleting resources or future climate disasters can all quietly shape how we go about our daily lives.
Calm-ey is a project on Coping with Climate Anxiety: Learning Methods for Mental Health for European Youth. This collaborative project aims to provide a space in the form of support groups where young people can talk about the impact of climate change and environmental challenges—not just as an environmental movement, but in a way that connects deeply to human activities and emotions. It’s a space where every feeling is valid, where we aim to understand these emotions and their root causes, and where we work together to build resilience.
By creating an environment that acknowledges the intersection of climate issues and human experiences, Calm-ey opens the door for conversations that help us process, understand, and ultimately take meaningful steps toward a healthier relationship with our planet and ourselves.
Climate Emotion Discussion Sessions is part of the Calm-ey project, focused on helping young people navigate climate anxiety and build resilience.
Stay updated on upcoming events and the final project activity this summer—subscribe to our newsletter or reach out to annalise@foemalta.org for more information.
Together, we can foster a deeper emotional connection to our environment and take meaningful action for a sustainable future.
