Young people are increasingly experiencing eco-anxiety due to the growing climate crisis and the emotional distress caused by environmental changes.
Recently, young people in the US state of Montana and in European countries have taken legal action against their governments, claiming that not enough has been done to protect the environment. This demonstrates a shift from anxiety over the environment to taking legal action.
Social media often contributes to the rise in eco-anxiety, as it exposes young users to alarming information and the risk of misinformation. This can intensify their feelings of helplessness, fear, and despair over climate change.
A global survey on climate anxiety among children and young people aged 16 to 25 from 10 countries found that they are extremely worried and feel sad, powerless, helpless, and betrayed by their governments. The survey also revealed that the adverse impacts on daily life from the climate crisis were greater for youth in the Global South.
These unpleasant emotions are contributing to the rising eco-anxiety and poor mental health among young people, as they experience frustration over governments’ lack of political will and action.
Eco-anxiety can compound pre-existing mental health issues of young people and affect their well-being into adulthood. It is essential for them to receive timely and appropriate mental health support.
Exposure to information about climate change, the amount of attention paid to climate change information, and social media exposure can significantly influence cognitive biases and trust in information. Social media platforms often create echo chambers and filter bubbles that reinforce existing viewpoints.
Schools and youth networks can play a vital role in increasing awareness about climate change and engaging young people positively in climate action. Additionally, governments could establish youth advisory boards and collaborate with social media and news platforms to strengthen youth action and well-being around climate change.
Positive news stories about climate action can help improve young people’s mental and social well-being. Thus, it is crucial for governments to consider young people’s voices in the decision-making process and ensure appropriate climate change reporting guidelines are in place.
Dr. Gabriela Fernando, an assistant professor at Monash University Indonesia, provides insight into the growing issue of eco-anxiety among young people and the potential ways to address it.
