From Screens to Stress: Exploring the Link Between Climate Change Communications and Eco-Anxiety Levels. A Dalhousie Case Study.

Abstract

As the climate crisis intensifies, so does its psychological impact which is leading to rising levels of eco-anxiety. This thesis explores the relationship between climate change communications and eco-anxiety levels among students at Dalhousie University. Using a mixed methods case study approach, a pilot study survey was administered to assess how different types of environmental messaging influence students' psychological well-being and engagement with climate issues and media. The results revealed that 90.05% of Dalhousie Students are currently feeling eco-anxiety. Negative climate change communications have been shown to exacerbate these emotions and contribute to an individual’s feelings of disengagement. This thesis argues for a balanced communications movement as well as developments of on-campus mental health supports that are tailored towards environmental distress. This research highlights the urgent need to reframe climate narratives and build supportive environments that foster climate resilience in the face of the climate crisis.