Climate Conversations: Navigating Climate Anxiety

In a world increasingly affected by climate change, many students find themselves overwhelmed by the magnitude of environmental challenges. To help address and navigate these feelings, the Sustainability Team is excited to invite you to this interactive event, where we will create a safe space for open discussions, learn from expert insights, and develop practical coping strategies. Facilitated by Dr Blanche Verlie, an expert in how people understand, experience, and respond to climate change, this event aims to foster a sense of community, empower students with knowledge, and inspire collective action towards sustainability. Whether you feel anxious about the future or simply want to understand and support others, this event is for you.

Key Information:

• Date & Time: Wednesday, 7th August, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
• Location: F23 Auditorium, University of Sydney (In-person only)
• Open to all students

What to expect:

• Expert Talk: Understanding Climate Anxiety - Dr Blanche Verlie
  • We'll hear from Dr Blanche Verlie, an expert in how people understand, experience, and respond to climate change. Blanche will explain the importance of acknowledging and addressing climate-related emotions, helping attendees understand the psychological impacts of climate change and the necessity of addressing these feelings.
• Interactive Activity: Personal Reflections 
  • Attendees will participate in an interactive activity designed to reflect on their personal feelings about climate change. They will be given index cards or access to an online platform to write down their thoughts, prompted by questions such as "How does climate change make you feel?" and "What specific aspects of climate change concern you the most?" Volunteers will have the opportunity to share their reflections with the group, fostering a sense of shared experience and solidarity.
    
• Group Discussion: Coping Strategies 
  • In small group discussions, attendees will explore coping strategies they have found helpful for managing climate anxiety. This collaborative approach aims to help attendees discover new ways to cope with their feelings and support each other.
    
• Action Planning and Resource Sharing 
  • Groups will reconvene to share the key coping strategies and action steps they discussed. Following this, there will be a presentation of campus resources available for mental health support and sustainability initiatives. Informational materials will be distributed, including contact information for counselling services, sustainability groups, and details of upcoming events, ensuring attendees have access to ongoing support.
    

Join us for an hour of meaningful conversation, practical advice, and collective empowerment!