Eco-anxiety - living with the ecological crisis

DREAM+PLAN Kick Off Meeting - Day 1 Tuesday 14th October: ALL - Plenary Room, 1.30pm - 3.00pm

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Blurb:

There are many severe crises in the world and these have an impact also on the well-being of researchers, particularly those working with difficult topics. One significant source of stress and anxiety is the intensifying ecological crisis. In this session, we will together explore coping amidst the “polycrisis” (interconnected crises). Emphasis will be given to emotions about environmental issues and various dynamics of “eco-anxiety”. We will discuss how and why it is important to pay attention to emotional regulation, and we will explore the many possibilities in emotions: they make us alive and sometimes require special care. Experienced facilitators from Finland will guide the session: eco-emotions researcher Panu Pihkala, Ph.D., and psychologist Sanni Saarimäki, a long-time leader in Tunne ry. Methods will include discussions also in small groups.

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Presenters:

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Dr. Panu Pihkala (b. 1979, he/his) from the University of Helsinki is an expert in interdisciplinary eco-emotion research. He is also an adjunct professor of environmental theology (Title of Docent) at the University of Helsinki and a researcher in HELSUS Sustainability Science Institute. Pihkala is currently one of the world’s most cited eco-anxiety researchers, but he also has a long history of facilitating various workshops and giving public talks. He serves as an advisor to many practical projects on eco-emotions, and hosts the podcast Climate Change and Happiness together with Dr. Thomas Doherty (https://climatechangeandhappiness.com/). He has been awarded several prizes in Finland for his work. www.panupihkala.fi

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Sanni Saarimäki (she/her) is a licensed psychologist (M.Psych), pedagogist (M.A. in History), and crisis specialist (60-credit diploma). She is a founding member and chairperson at Tunne ry (https://tunne.org/english/). With 12 years of experience, she works as a study psychologist at Aalto University, Finland, supporting bachelor, master and PhD students through various services including individual and group counseling, crisis support, teaching and faculty consulting. At Tunne ry, Sanni specializes in eco-emotions and well-being, assisting individuals, groups, and organizations in managing challenging eco-emotions through workshops, training, and consultations.​​