A Burgeoning Ecopsychological Recovery Movement

Abstract

Contemporary individualism, materialism, and unsustainable consumption reflect a cultural addiction. Like those who overuse or abuse various substances, many people are trapped by short-term conveniences and escapes from emotional pain provided via “thing-a-holism” (Clinebell, 1996) and techno-addiction (Glendinning, 1995), rather than focusing on the myriad long-term benefits associated with more sustainable practices. Regrettably, much of the messaging designed to promote change only serves to reinforce habitual and unsustainable behavior patterns. Various spiritually based initiatives emphasizing mindfulness, interconnectedness, community, and belief in something greater than one's self are described as representing an emerging “recovery movement” that holds promise for responding to the “Long Emergency” (Kunstler, 2005), the topic of this special issue. Key Words: Addiction—Environmental anxiety/eco-anxiety—Climate change—Positive psychology—Spirituality.