Turning Anxiety into Action this Earth Day
Every day, the news delivers fresh images and headlines about climate-related disasters, so it’s no surprise that many people are growing increasingly anxious about the future of our planet. One of the most effective ways to work through those feelings is by taking action and connecting with others who care.
This Earth Day, here are a few ways to channel that energy into something tangible:
Take action, wherever you are
Visible, hands-on action creates an immediate sense of impact. Instead of feeling stuck in a global problem, you can see the difference you’re making in real time. Try joining a campus clean up or take part in one in your own community.
- Thunder Bay: April 22, 12–4 pm, Lake Tamblyn. Register here
- Orillia: April 22, Campus Clean up Event
- Not on campus? Organize a quick neighbourhood clean-up, pick up litter on your usual walk, or invite a friend to join you.
Connect through creativity and shared perspectives
Creative spaces give you a way to process complex emotions, feel less alone, and connect to a broader community working through similar concerns. Check out the Northwest Climate Gathering Artist Residency Opening Reception (2:30–3:30 pm at Thunder Bay Art Gallery) or engage with climate-focused art, writing, or media wherever you are.
Spend time in a positive, community-focused space
Positive, community-based experiences help counterbalance constant negative messaging and remind you what you’re working to protect. Find a local event, green space, or community gathering where you are.
- Thunder Bay: Earth Day Celebration at Centennial Conservatory (6–8 pm) with The Lorax, activities, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
- Orillia: Earth Day event (4–8 pm, Lakehead Orillia campus) featuring community booths, an Indigenous garden tour, hands-on workshops, seed giveaways, and plant-based food resources. Orillia’s event also highlights this year’s Earth Day theme, Conscious Consumption, with a focus on reducing waste and supporting food sovereignty. The evening film and discussion (6–8 pm) will explore local conservation and community action. Registration is required for the film portion, and Orillia Public Transit is free that day.
Small actions you can take anywhere
Climate anxiety is often rooted in feeling powerless. Small, consistent actions build a sense of control and agency, while connecting your values to your daily habits.
- Reduce your personal waste (reuse containers, skip single-use items)
- Walk, bike, or use transit when possible
- Eat more plant-based meals, even occasionally
- Support local or sustainable businesses
- Limit doomscrolling and seek out solution-focused climate stories
Keep it going at Lakehead (and beyond)
If you’re looking for ways to stay involved in the months ahead:
- Community Garden plots will be opening soon. You can email communitygarden@lakeheadu.ca to get a plot or volunteer
- Campus Beautification Days run throughout the summer and are always looking for volunteers to help weed and tend to campus spaces
- The Active Commute Challenge is happening in June
- Donate to, or volunteer with, Wolfie's Closet (TBay). Clothes are accepted (year-round) in 4 locations, including the Sustainability Office, CASES 2004F. If you want to volunteer with Wolfie's Closet, email Rachel Portinga, Sustainability Coordinator, at rporting@lakeheadu.ca
- To stay up to date on everything related to sustainability and climate action at Lakehead, sign up for Sustainability Leaders emails (about twice a month) and follow @lakeheadsustainability on Instagram
Taking action, especially alongside others, can help shift feelings of helplessness into a sense of purpose. It doesn’t have to be big to matter. Start where you are, with what you have.
When to reach out for more support
Taking action can help, but if feelings of anxiety or overwhelm are starting to affect your ability to focus, sleep, keep up with school, or connect with others, it might be time to reach out for additional support. Make an appointment with a Student Health and Wellness counsellor or use the WellU Key to navigate the resources available to you.
