Franke Global Leadership Initiative (GLI) Oral Presentations
Presentation Type
Presentation
Faculty Mentor’s Full Name
Peter McDonough
Faculty Mentor’s Department
GLI
Abstract / Artist's Statement
"Addressing Eco-Emotions: An Initiative for Coping with Climate-Induced Emotional Distress" is a research project aimed at tackling the growing challenge of eco-emotions, such as eco-grief or eco-anxiety, brought about by the impacts of climate change. Despite the complex and widespread nature of the issue, and the limited training of the group in the field of mental health, the goal is to raise awareness about eco-emotions and provide a supportive space for individuals to process their feelings related to the climate crisis. Through hosting a week-long series of events, each tailored to a different coping mechanism for eco-emotions, the project aims to create a platform for individuals at the University of Montana to explore various coping methods, share experiences, and foster a sense of community amongst participants. These events include an interactive poster walk on UM’s oval, a meditation session tailored to calm anxiety surrounding the state of the environment, an action project to allow participants to act as part of the solution to climate change, and more. The group's role is to support individuals and communities in their efforts to cope with eco-emotions, serving as a catalyst for larger efforts to address this pressing issue.
Category
Franke Global Leadership Initiative
Addressing Eco-Emotions: An Initiative for Coping with Climate-Induced Emotional Distress
UC 220
"Addressing Eco-Emotions: An Initiative for Coping with Climate-Induced Emotional Distress" is a research project aimed at tackling the growing challenge of eco-emotions, such as eco-grief or eco-anxiety, brought about by the impacts of climate change. Despite the complex and widespread nature of the issue, and the limited training of the group in the field of mental health, the goal is to raise awareness about eco-emotions and provide a supportive space for individuals to process their feelings related to the climate crisis. Through hosting a week-long series of events, each tailored to a different coping mechanism for eco-emotions, the project aims to create a platform for individuals at the University of Montana to explore various coping methods, share experiences, and foster a sense of community amongst participants. These events include an interactive poster walk on UM’s oval, a meditation session tailored to calm anxiety surrounding the state of the environment, an action project to allow participants to act as part of the solution to climate change, and more. The group's role is to support individuals and communities in their efforts to cope with eco-emotions, serving as a catalyst for larger efforts to address this pressing issue.