Abstract

Negative mental health impacts related to climate change, including eco-anxiety, are on the rise, with adolescents among the groups disproportionately affected by this phenomenon. However, the mental health field, including drama therapy, is still catching up in its ability to respond to the needs of young people experiencing climate distress. Drawing on philosophical inquiry, this paper makes an argument for the potential of drama therapy to support adolescents experiencing eco-anxiety. Other psychotherapy modalities are examined to better understand how eco-anxiety is currently being addressed and to identify what drama therapy can contribute or do differently in response to this growing concern. Findings suggest that drama therapy can deepen existing therapeutic approaches by supporting emotional self-regulation, fostering validation and connectedness through group work, providing opportunities to rehearse action and agency, strengthening nature connectedness, and encouraging practitioner self-reflection. In presenting these findings, this paper seeks to encourage drama therapists to draw on their skills and practices to engage with eco-anxiety as a critical and emerging area of clinical concern.