Eco-anxiety is harming young people’s mental health – but it doesn’t have to
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This article is part of: United Nations Climate Change Conference COP27
Dr. Katherine Grill, CEO & Cofounder, Neolth
- Climate change is fuelling a mental health ‘eco-anxiety’ crisis among our children and young people, some of it fuelled by social media and much by a feeling of powerlessness.
- 67% of Americans aged 18 to 23 are somewhat to very concerned about the impact of climate change on their mental health.
- But this can be combated by taking meaningful action, such as campaigning or volunteering, that gives children a sense of agency and control.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the communities worldwide experienced sharp increases in stress, anxiety, depression and suicidality. Systemic shortcomings in access to mental health services emerged, with billions in funding allocated to improved solutions.
But those solutions need to be supported by an in-depth understanding of how certain factors impact mental health – not least, climate change.
The connection of hurricanes, wildfires...
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