If you are feeling sad or confused or angry about something you likely look for a friend, family member or trusted colleague to talk things over with. This is a good strategy to use when it comes to climate change too. As Katharine Hayhoe writes “when we join forces with others, our voices can become louder and our impact stronger.” But of course you have to find the right folks to have those climate change discussions with.
Get started by looking “for an organization that aligns with your values on climate action. Start by following them on social media or subscribing to their updates and sharing what you learn with people you know. Look into how you can contribute to their work. By teaming up, you can amplify your impact and make a real difference.”
Hayhoe stresses that it is important to look for organizations and people with whom you share some common values beyond wanting to work on climate change - she lists organizations for parents, older adults, people from different faith backgrounds and those who love nature and the natural world. And, as Hayhoe mentions, there are more niche climate change groups for those who enjoy outdoor sports, people working in healthcare and students from kindergarten to university. A simple Google search will likely present you with a wide variety of such groups.
Finding your climate people can open up a whole new world of experiences and help you channel some of that anxiety and grief you are feeling into action which will definitely improve not only your own mood but also benefit the planet.