Eco-Anxiety in Canadian News Media: Representations, Frames, and Public Implications (2019–2024)

This research investigates how eco-anxiety has been represented in Canadian mainstream media over the past five years and the potential impacts of this coverage on public opinion. Eco-anxiety, defined as the persistent fear or distress related to climate change, is increasingly recognized as both a psychological challenge and a motivator for environmental engagement. Yet, little is known about how Canadian outlets such as The Globe and Mail, National Post, and Toronto Star frame eco-anxiety, or how these portrayals intersect with public perceptions. Using qualitative content analysis, this study will examine media frames (alarmist, solution-oriented, systemic critique, individual responsibility, dismissive) and tones across 2019–2024 coverage. The findings will contribute to climate communication research and offer insights for responsible media reporting and public engagement in the Canadian climate context.