Solastalgia

A new form of psychological distress: what is solastalgia

‘Solastalgia’ is a relatively new term in the field of psychology and mental healthWhat is meant by mental health? According to the World Healt... More, coined to describe a form of emotional and psychological distress associated with environmental change, especially when people witness familiar places and environments transforming or disappearing. The term was first introduced in 2003 by Australian environmental philosopher Glenn Albrecht and derives from the fusion of the Latin word “solacium” (comfort, consolation) and the Greek root “algia” (pain), therefore meaning a nostalgia for comfort. “Solastalgia — as explained by Albrecht — represents a form of nostalgia or melancholy that arises when one is at home and observes negative changes in the surrounding familiar environment.” The term was coined to describe the harmful impacts caused by the coal mining boom on the population of the Upper Hunter Valley, Australia. Essentially, solastalgia represents a kind of painful nostalgia linked to the loss or degradation of the environment in which a person lives or with which they strongly identify.

Who are the most vulnerable?

Solastalgia particularly affects those who have a strong emotional connection to a specific place or environment, especially if it is closely linked to their sense of identity, personal history, or community. Indigenous populations, rural communities, and farmers are among the most vulnerable, as they often rely heavily on the land for their livelihood and have a deep cultural and spiritual connection to the surrounding environment. However, solastalgia can also affect individuals living in urban areas, particularly when they are witnesses to environmental changes and accelerated urbanization that lead to an emotional detachment from the place where they have spent most of their lives.

Although solastalgia can affect anyone, it shows particular vulnerability in certain groups, including children and the elderly. Children who have experienced extreme weather events are particularly susceptible to developing psychological disorders in the future. It has been observed that younger people demonstrate greater interest and concern about climate change compared to adults, as evidenced by youth climate protests worldwide. Various surveys have revealed that many young people express concern, fear, and anxietyAnxiety is an emotional response characterized by feelings o... More regarding the impact of global warming on their lives, and some even believe that the world could end during their lifetime.

Symptoms

The symptoms of solastalgia can vary from individual to individual, but some common signs include anxiety, depressionDepression is a disorder characterized by persistent sadness... More, feelings of helplessness and despair, disorientation, irritability, anger, and persistent sadness. Affected individuals may experience a sense of loss and uprootedness, with the feeling of no longer belonging to the place where they live. The sense of helplessness regarding environmental changes, combined with fear of further degradation, can create a constant state of tension and worry. Chronic distress, in turn, can weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to numerous physical disorders. Solastalgia also complicates interpersonal relationships, undermining the cohesion of families and communities.

Possible remedies

Addressing solastalgia requires a holistic approach involving individuals, communities, and institutions. Some possible remedies may include:

• Awareness and understanding. Recognizing and understanding solastalgia as a valid psychological issue is essential. Individuals should be encouraged to share their experiences and feelings regarding environmental changes to reduce the sense of isolation.
• Social support. Building social support networks within affected communities can be a key factor in resilienceWhat is meant by resilience? According to the American Psych... More. Sharing experiences and mutual support can help mitigate feelings of disconnection.
• Therapeutic interventions. Targeted psychological interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or group therapy, can help people manage emotional pain and develop strategies to adapt to environmental changes.
• Engagement in environmental management. Giving communities an active role in managing their environment can help restore a sense of control and connection to the land. Environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives can also promote greater awareness and responsibility toward the environment.
• Policies and legislation. It is crucial that governments and institutions recognize solastalgia as a social and environmental issue and adopt policies that promote environmental conservation, protection of vulnerable communities, and the promotion of psychological well-being.