Assessing Eco-Anxiety of Selected Residents in Environmentally Challenged Urban Locale: Basis in the Development of Environmental Psychology Module for Mental Health and Sustainable Community

As the rising extreme weather events occurring in the Philippines, the extreme heat index during El Niño and consecutive tropical typhoons during La Niña created construct consciousness of the Filipinos with regards to climate change that is also increasing over the period; this consciousness may be labeled as a psychological term to “Eco-anxiety” which may create an adverse impact in terms of emotional and physical aspects. Thus, this study aims to investigate awareness, explore factors, and propose programs regarding eco- anxiety inside the urban locale area and was done in collaboration with the City Environment Service Department (CESD)- Bacoor (formerly known as City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO). The research was conducted in the three areas of Bacoor, namely San Nicolas III, Molino III, and Molino IV, which employed mixed- methods design, incorporated both qualitative and quantitative approaches, and used validated instruments for interviews and survey questionnaires. There were 400 survey respondents, and 15 participants were interviewed. The data was analyzed using the following statistical treatment of frequency count and percentage and weighted mean for descriptive interpretation; the Colaizzi method was utilized for qualitative analysis. As such, results indicated that participants experienced eco-anxiety at a relatively low level. Coping mechanisms included relaxation techniques, optimism, and engaging in recreational activities. Physical manifestations of eco-anxiety included sleeping difficulties and fatigue. While it generally had a minor impact on social relationships, some respondents reported occasional disruptions and conflicts, especially related to differing environmental perspectives. The study recommends considering areas that are directly impacted by climate change, such as flood-prone areas. Additionally, the higher level of the term awareness may create significant contributions towards environmental sustainability in communities.