Rethinking the good life amid the ecological crisis: The interplay between eco‐anxiety, nature connection and well‐being

Abstract

<ol><li>The ecological crisis, characterized by various interconnected environmental problems, has emerged as a significant source of anxiety, commonly known as ‘eco-anxiety’. This psychological distress stemming from ecological threats carries profound implications for human and nonhuman well-being. Research suggests that while a strong connection with nature can increase eco-anxiety, cultivating and sustaining this connection can also serve as a coping mechanism to mitigate its negative effects.</li><li>This study investigates the interplay between eco-anxiety, nature connection and well-being, providing a framework for understanding how they interact amid the ecological crisis. The data were collected through an online panel survey in 2022, targeting the Finnish population aged 18 to 65 (<em>n</em> = 1013). Covariance-based structural equation modelling (CB-SEM) was employed to test three hypotheses regarding the relationship between these constructs.</li><li>The analysis confirmed all hypotheses. First, eco-anxiety was negatively related to well-being, indicating that ecological threats contribute to psychological distress. Second, a positive association was found between eco-anxiety and nature connection, suggesting that individuals experiencing eco-anxiety possess a deeper sense of interconnectedness with the natural world. Third, a positive relationship was established between nature connection and well-being, highlighting that a robust connection with nature enhances overall well-being.</li><li>Additionally, a statistically significant positive indirect relationship was identified between eco-anxiety and well-being, indicating that a deeper connection with nature can mitigate the negative effects of eco-anxiety.</li><li><em>Synthesis and applications</em>. This study furthers the understanding of the complex interconnections between eco-anxiety, nature connection and well-being. The study also advances the understanding of eco-anxiety not only as a psychological burden but also as a potential catalyst for fostering environmental awareness and engaging individuals in environmental stewardship and agency, sometimes called ‘practical eco-anxiety’. This holds significant implications for environmental education, psychology and policy development: with constructive coping skills, people can practice environmental responsibility and cherish a strong nature connection.</li></ol>