what is climate anxiety?

While natural disasters and extreme weather have long been linked to mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a new kind of emotional response has emerged in recent years.

Climate anxiety (also known as eco-anxiety) is not a mental health condition. It is a valid emotional response to the growing threat of climate change. People experiencing climate anxiety often feel: 

• Fear for the future 
• Helplessness or hopelessness 
• Grief about environmental loss 
• Anger or frustration over inaction. 

Children and young people are especially vulnerable to these feelings, as they face the prospect of growing up in a world affected by environmental uncertainty.

Even in places like the Scotland, where the effects of climate change may not yet feel as immediate or severe, young people are still feeling the emotional toll.  

A poll from 2019 among 8-16 year olds in Scotland shows that: 

• 62% were worried about climate change. 
• 61% felt their voice was not being listened to when it comes to climate change. 
• Roughly one in five reported thinking about climate change had kept them awake at night.

how can climate change impact me?

Changes in climate have a number of physical and mental health consequences, as well as social and economic impacts.

Emotional and Psychological Symptoms (climate anxiety)

• Constant worry or intrusive thoughts about the future 
• Pessimistic beliefs (e.g. “The future is frightening”, “Humanity is doomed” or “It’s too risky to have children”) 
• Feelings of hopelessness, emotional numbness or paralysis 
• Low motivation, difficulty concentrating 
• Avoidance or withdrawal from daily activities. 

These symptoms can affect relationships, decision-making and performance in studies or work. All of the above are part of climate anxiety. 

Physical Health Effects

Physical and mental health are strongly interconnected. Rising temperatures might lead to adverse physical health effects like:  

• Sleep disturbances 
• Fatigue or irritability 
• Reduced physical activity.

Trauma and Mental Health Effects

Extreme events like floods, wildfires or droughts can lead to: 

• PTSD 
• Ongoing depression or anxiety 
• Substance use 
• Chronic stress over time.

Social and Economic Impacts

Climate change can also affect mental health through social and economic changes like:  

• Job and financial insecurity 
• Displacement or forced migration 
• Breakdown in community support.

climate anxiety in rural communities

Rural communities, especially those dependent on agriculture, are particularly vulnerable to the mental health impacts of climate change. Climate change is also affecting other industries prominent in rural communities, like fishing, forestry, renewable energy, land management and tourism. 

The agriculture sector is one of the most at-risk industries, with climate-related damage (like droughts and extreme weather) leading to greater economic uncertainty, job instability and mental distress.  

Studies show that when droughts (an extreme climate event) are more severe, last longer or are felt to have a big impact, people are more likely to experience mental health problems like depression, anxiety and thoughts of suicide.

Explanations include: 

• Farming is often tied to identity. Many farmers see their land as part of themselves. Climate stress can trigger a deep sense of grief, guilt or responsibility. 

• Farming, fishing and forestry are strongly connected to masculinity and some people may feel too proud or ashamed to seek help, fearing they’ll appear weak. 

• Economic pressure and a sense of scarcity may also weaken community ties, increasing feelings of isolation. 

coping strategies

Below are simple strategies that can help you cope with climate anxiety if you feel like it is affecting you: 

Build Mental Strength

Focus on key positive traits like hope, optimism and resilience. Try: 

• Journaling 
• Reflecting on your values 
• Setting small, meaningful goals.

Practice Mindfulness

Use simple tools like breathing exercises or guided meditation to calm your mind and stay present. Mindfulness can reduce overwhelm and help you manage difficult emotions. 

Shift Your Thinking

Try cognitive reframing: Instead of focusing on what you can’t control, ask yourself, ‘What can I do right now?’ Shifting your mindset helps build a sense of agency and empowerment. 

Get Involved

Taking action, like joining a climate group, campaign or volunteering, can boost your sense of purpose and reduce feelings of helplessness. Activism can also build confidence and connect you with like-minded people. 

Talk About It

Social support is a powerful buffer against climate anxiety. Open up to friends, family or community members about how you’re feeling.  

Ask for Help

If your climate anxiety feels overwhelming, it’s okay to reach out to get support.

Be Media-Smart

Constant exposure to climate news can fuel distress. Be intentional with your social media and TV use: 

• Take breaks from the news 
• Follow trusted sources 
• Balance distressing content with hopeful stories. 

Our National Advice and Support Service can help you and people you care for with mental health concerns and money worries.   

We can link and signpost you to relevant local and national support, including our own Change Mental Health services, as well supporting with debt, grants and benefits.   

The service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Contact 0808 8010 515, email advice@changemh.org or fill in the form on the service webpage.   

For full details about the service, visit the National Advice and Support Service webpage.