Understanding the evidence for climate concerns, negative emotions and climate-related mental ill-health in young people: a scoping review

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackgroundHuman-induced climate change represents a serious threat to human health, including mental health, due to both the traumatising effects of extreme climate events and the psychological effect of worry about climate change. The present scoping review aims to systematically search and synthesise original research related to mental health and climate related concerns, negative emotions and mental ill-health in young people. Findings will help to understand the current landscape, gaps in the literature, and to provide recommendations for future youth mental health research and practice.MethodsA systematic search and narrative synthesis of the literature published prior to October 2020 examining negative emotions associated with climate change in young people was undertaken. Studies were included if they examined mental ill-health (e.g. symptoms of depression or anxiety) or negative emotions (e.g. distress, worry, concern) associated with the threat of climate change.FindingsOf the 3329 peer-reviewed articles screened, 12 met the inclusion criteria. Together, included studies show that young people are worried about climate change. Studies also explored the coping strategies young people use to manage their distress caused by climate change.InterpretationsThe limited literature in this area indicates a key gap in youth mental health research. Available evidence suggests that young people are concerned about climate change, which may increase risk of mental ill-health. Thus, clinicians should assess for and address climate anxiety in young people. Mental health leaders are urged to advocate for urgent climate action to mitigate the effects of climate anxiety in young people.Fundingthis project was not funded.