As climate disasters increase, young people worldwide are reporting unprecedented levels of anxiety, depression, and fear about the planet’s future.
Jeffrey Kluger reports for TIME.
In short:
- One study shows that nearly 60% of young people globally feel very or extremely worried about climate change, with many reporting impacts on daily functioning.
- Climate-related disasters correlate with long-term mental distress, particularly among teens who have experienced repeated severe weather events.
- Young people often feel ignored when discussing climate fears and are calling for adults to engage more openly and take responsibility.
Key quote:
“It’s the people who have contributed the least to the problem who are facing the challenge of dealing with the consequences.”
— Emma Lawrance, Climate Care Center lead at Imperial College London and study co-author
Why this matters:
Climate change is a growing public health crisis, especially for the young. The developing brains of children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to psychological distress, and the overwhelming exposure to climate-related disasters, dire predictions, and perceived adult inaction amplifies feelings of fear, helplessness, and anger. This distress can have long-term effects on mental health, academic performance, and social development. Researchers are documenting a surge in depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms tied directly to climate fears, with some young people reconsidering life choices such as having children. Lower-income and marginalized communities, often hardest hit by climate disasters, face additional mental health burdens due to fewer resources and support systems.
Related EHN coverage: How to address the looming crisis of climate anxiety
