In the introduction to Beyond Doom and Gloom, Elin Kelsey highlights the importance of creating a dialogue of hope alongside the constant negative discussions on environmental issues. Kelsey opens with an anecdote of how she asked people across the world, from scientists to preschoolers, how they feel about the environment. The interlocutors’ replies reveal a widespread hopelessness. This despair affects personal choices and mental health, leading to eco-anxiety and withdrawal. By focusing on catastrophic narratives, the media and educators inadvertently foster a culture of hopelessness, despite evidence of environmental recoveries. Initiatives like #OceanOptimism highlight success, showing the need for more balanced narratives. A Rachel Carson Center workshop emphasized rethinking environmental communication, promoting hope and resilience without downplaying the seriousness of environmental issues, and inspiring constructive action and emotional well-being.