Preparing for the apocalypse: Here’s why collaboration is essential | CNN

Editor's note: "Shift Your Mindset" is a periodic series by CNN's Mindfulness, But Better team. We engage with specialists to explore alternative approaches that can help enhance your life.

If you ever check out a zombie film, you'll probably notice characters freaking out and betraying one another to keep the zombies from munching on their brains. However, researchers understand that these reactions are just fictional stereotypes.

During difficult times, the majority of individuals tend to react with kindness, support, and collaboration. It appears that throughout history, humans have worked together to face challenges and disasters since the very beginning of society.

During my research for the book “Saved at the Seawall: Stories from the September 11 Boat Lift,” I dedicated countless hours to interviewing people who participated in the unexpected evacuation of almost 500,000 individuals from Lower Manhattan via boat after the attacks on the World Trade Center. I learned a lot about the terrifying situations faced by the stranded civilians, who were desperate to get on any boat they could find. However, everyone I talked to insisted that there was no sense of chaos or pushing and shoving. In actuality, the crowds made way for those who were seriously injured, allowing them to leave first.

At the same time, maritime crews risk their safety repeatedly, steering their boats back to the heart of the disaster to rescue even more passengers eager to flee Manhattan Island. Studies have shown that throughout history, there are numerous instances of what is known as "disaster compassion," where individuals step up to offer help during crises.

"In times of crisis, people tend to naturally shift into a collaborative mindset," stated Athena Aktipis in her book "A Field Guide to the Apocalypse: A Mostly Serious Guide to Surviving Our Wild Times." When we observe any recent disasters, we notice that a greater number of individuals come forward to lend a hand and offer support; instances of chaos and exploitation are the rarity, rather than the norm."

I had a conversation with Aktipis, an associate professor of psychology at Arizona State University. She emphasizes the importance of keeping this in mind as we get ready for various types of disasters—particularly when forming a "Z-team" of individuals we’d want with us during an apocalyptic scenario, whether it involves zombies or not. (The "Z" stands for zombie, naturally.) Aktipis is an expert in cooperation theory and social psychology, with over two decades of research focused on teamwork, human kindness, and conflict.

While she is quite serious about getting ready for the Big One (check out her survival kit suggestions here), Aktipis is also committed to “bringing fun back to the apocalypse.” She expressed her hope that her book will guide readers from a place of anxiety over the future to feeling empowered to reshape their lives in a way that fosters a more sustainable and resilient future for everyone.

Ultimately, she contended that "at our core, everyone has a desire to make the world a better place," and working together is the fundamental rule that has proven effective over time.

This discussion has been revised and shortened for better understanding.

CNN: How do you define an apocalypse?

Athena Aktipis: The term “apocalypse” traces back to ancient Greece, where it means “to uncover” or “to disclose.” Therefore, an apocalypse can be seen as any situation that brings to light the dangers we encounter. Such events allow us to gain insights and address our weaknesses, helping us not just to survive, but to flourish, even as we navigate through increasingly challenging times.

We're not only facing a potential catastrophic future; we are currently experiencing crises in many parts of the world. Disasters and upheavals happen constantly, and there are always serious situations unfolding somewhere.

Contemplating the end of the world allows us to discern what truly matters in our lives. It also provides an opportunity to create a supportive community that can protect us from various risks, whether they are catastrophic events or the challenges we face in daily life.

CNN: What insights have you gained from your work regarding the ways and times in which individuals support one another?

Aktipis: Our research, which includes field studies, experiments with people in a lab setting, and computer simulations, has shown that during uncertain and unpredictable times, especially in crises, people tend to instinctively support one another without any expectation of reward.

Offering support during difficult times creates an informal system of shared risk. From an evolutionary perspective, having a network of mutual assistance is more valuable than merely advancing on your own.

CNN: Does this imply that people are naturally inclined toward collectivism?

This trend showcases aspects of both group-oriented and self-reliant perspectives. The ranchers we've observed in southern Arizona and New Mexico, who reside on large properties far from their neighbors, exemplify self-sufficiency and firmly believe in handling their own issues. However, when an unexpected situation occurs, such as an injury, illness, death, or sudden equipment malfunction, they readily come together to assist one another without expecting anything in return.

Our readiness to assist is often rooted in the understanding that we have the ability to meet the needs we observe. When we recognize our connection with those around us, it becomes more natural to offer our support.

CNN: How have apocalyptic events in history influenced what you refer to as humans' ability to withstand apocalyptic scenarios?

Aktipis: Throughout our history—long before we became humans—mankind has faced catastrophic events. Every living creature has adapted to handle threats. Changes in the environment, movements of populations, and conflicts have always been integral to our communities, and humans have developed the ability to confront challenges together, as a collective.

We don’t just adjust to changes in our surroundings; after overcoming a crisis and reflecting on it, we also gain insights. The key skill that helps us navigate tough times is our ability to work together. Alongside this, our capacity to communicate, exchange information, and form genuine connections where we truly care for one another is crucial. These qualities have consistently supported us throughout our development as a species.

CNN: In light of the numerous global challenges we face today, how can we overcome feelings of helplessness that might prevent us from taking meaningful action?

Aktipis: Embracing a spirit of adventure is crucial! It's all too common to feel paralyzed by fear in response to the changes around us, but we can choose to see these challenges as chances to learn and develop. By gaining a deeper understanding of our world, we can prepare ourselves for what's ahead. Instead of being reactive when difficulties arise, we can proactively identify simple steps to boost our resilience. This preparation can make a significant difference when we do face tough situations.

Individuals are frequently encouraged to handle their own stress through mindfulness practices, but it's also crucial to have strategies for addressing the shared stress that many experience. Collaboration, open communication, and community engagement are vital. The arts provide significant support for individuals in navigating uncertainty and anxiety, while also allowing us to envision a collective future. Stories are a fantastic tool for focusing our attention on different realities, possibilities, and futures, enabling us to align and explore new paths together.

CNN: Are our evolutionary adaptations enough to face the challenges of today's disasters?

Aktipis: The apocalyptic challenges we face today are on such a grand scale that we haven't developed the means to handle them effectively. The significant risks to our existence are too vast for us to tackle alone. To overcome these issues, we need to unite and collaborate in ways that are as substantial as the challenges themselves. It’s essential that we learn to synchronize our abilities and make a concerted effort to work together on solutions that are uplifting and constructive for everyone involved.

It's essential for individuals with various perspectives—such as scientists, artists, doctors, and policymakers—to work together and exchange ideas on how to transform our shared behaviors. Our brains are incredible at processing information, granting us a wealth of abilities as individuals and as groups. However, we haven't completely utilized these capabilities to tackle the challenges in front of us. This presents a significant opportunity for progress.

One fascinating aspect of human evolution is our ability to adapt and take on new challenges—both as individuals and as a society. This gives us a strong reason to feel optimistic about what lies ahead.

CNN: You suggest creating a team of people you would want by your side during an apocalypse. Who would be ideal for this role?

Aktipis: A Z-team is a group of trusted individuals that you can count on during tough times. To create your Z-team, try this exercise: Imagine a scenario where zombies are banging on your door. Who would you want to have with you? Who can you trust to handle difficult situations? Who is capable of stepping up when everything seems to be falling apart?

The members of your Z-team are probably individuals you already want to include in your social circle. Building connections with reliable people not only boosts your ability to withstand challenges during tough times but also helps you feel more secure and less isolated in the present.

Getting ready for the apocalypse can help address various issues we face today. Many people experience feelings of loneliness, disconnection, or a lack of purpose in their lives. There’s also a lot of anxiety about the state of the world. One way to alleviate these feelings is by forming a reliable support group that we can lean on during tough times. Together, we can approach our fears with curiosity and humor, perhaps even turning it into a fun activity. For instance, you might playfully ask, "What unique talent would you contribute in a zombie apocalypse?" This kind of banter not only lightens the mood but also strengthens your relationships, even if there's no real crisis at hand.

Given the many pressures we face, finding time to connect with the important people in our lives can be a challenge. By viewing this as essential preparation for any tough times ahead, we can make it a priority to spend more time with others. Building and nurturing our relationships is a valuable investment. It helps us create a network of support, ensuring that we can rely on each other when needed.

Jessica DuLong is a journalist from Brooklyn, New York, who also collaborates on books, serves as a writing coach, and has authored “Saved at the Seawall: Stories From the September 11 Boat Lift” and “My River Chronicles: Rediscovering the Work That Built America.”