Solastalgia

Solastalgia refers to the emotional or existential burden that arises when one’s environment changes negatively, often due to environmental destruction or climate change, while remaining physically in that environment. The term combines the Latin solacium (comfort) and the Greek -algia (pain, suffering) and was coined in 2003 by Australian philosopher Glenn Albrecht to describe the unique psychological impact of experiencing the deterioration of one’s home or landscape. Unlike nostalgia, which describes a longing for a lost place or a past time from a distance, solastalgia is the feeling of loss of comfort and identity of one’s home while still living in it.

The solastalgic experience is especially triggered by present changes and leads to a loss of comfort and identity. The formerly familiar environment becomes alien or threatening, which can provoke feelings of grief, disorientation, and powerlessness. Solastalgia can be triggered by chronic environmental changes such as climate change, drought, mining, or deforestation, as well as by acute disasters like floods or fires.

The psychological effects are diverse and can include sadness, anxiety, depression, and helplessness. Moreover, the solastalgic burden is often intensified when individuals feel that they are losing control over the changes. In today’s globalized world, solastalgia is further amplified by modern technologies and media, which enable people to emotionally connect with ecological issues even in distant regions. This enhances the relevance of the topic in social movements, art, and psychological support, reflecting its growing significance in the global discourse on climate change and environmental damage.