Climate anxiety: How young people can deal with the uncertain future

According to a study, 75 percent of young people are afraid of the consequences of climate change. As part of your job, you have a lot to do with young people, Ms. Dahm. What is the uncertain future doing to the younger generation?

Claudine Dahm: The climate crisis can be particularly stressful for very emotional or empathetic people. The uncertainties that the climate crisis brings with it can above all lead to fears for the future. These are accompanied, for example, by typical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, rumination, mood swings, sadness or restlessness. In some cases, it can even lead to depressive moods or psychosomatic complaints.

In addition to fear – in this case climate anxiety – there are also a number of other feelings that can arise when the threat is perceived. These include, for example, anger, sadness, hopelessness or frustration. Some also struggle with shame or guilt about their lifestyle.

Where does the fear of climate change among young people come from?

And why are young people in particular affected by climate anxiety?

Children and young people in particular have often not yet learned how to deal appropriately with such threats and need special support from their parents in such situations. However, fear can also be useful by motivating us to act in a forward-looking manner.

Apropos: Although we are increasingly concerned with the climate crisis, we often only change our behavior slightly. Why?

Increased anxiety does not necessarily lead to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Other conditions must also be met, such as access to useful information or the broad belief in society that such a lifestyle is desirable.

However, when I look at “Fridays For Future” – a movement that was founded exclusively by children, adolescents and young adults and has achieved a lot in recent years – then I see a lot of young adults there who are actively campaigning for a more just implement climate policy.

Information versus self-protection: recognizing your own limits

But can protests do more than rethink individual habits?

The constant reference to individual responsibility – i.e. changes in one’s own behavior and lifestyle – can even lead to less political pressure ultimately resulting in the necessary political changes not taking place. Personal commitment is commendable and can feel good, but real change can only come through political decisions. Ultimately, the climate crisis is a global threat that can only be overcome on an equally global, socio-political level.

Back to climate fear: how much information about the climate crisis, war and disease is actually healthy?

As mentioned before, fear can not only be negative, but also act as a protective mechanism. Fear can move and motivate us to act in a future-oriented and constructive manner. Here, as with many things, the dose makes the poison. It is important to stay informed and know about current events. I would recommend listening to yourself regularly – in order to recognize your own limits.

How do I know that a limit has been reached?

When you notice that your anxiety is growing and symptoms like trouble sleeping, rumination, or mood swings are increasing, it’s time to slow down. In this case it is important to take time for yourself, hobbies and social contacts. Relaxation exercises can help to find a better way to deal with the stress that has arisen and to take a concrete break from everyday life. In addition, you should always keep in mind what you can realistically change or influence yourself and what you cannot.

Let’s run through the worst case scenario: The fear of climate change persists and intensifies over the generations. What does that do psychologically to our society?

When worries and fears take over and intensify, dysfunctional fears and mental disorders can develop for the individual. The probability of this is increased by the fact that natural disasters are becoming more frequent and the forecasts of scientists are taking on apocalyptic traits. Above all, poor prospects due to a lack of political decisions and measures and at the same time the perceived lack of opportunities to be able to do something on an individual level can lead to an increase in fear.

The way out of climate anxiety

What can I do to establish a healthy way of dealing with fear and not slip into the negative spiral in the first place?

Dealing with this fear correctly begins with compassionate self-care by recognizing it and, for example, recognizing and respecting our own limits when it comes to our own commitment. Of course, it is also important to protect children and young people in particular by providing them with adequate information and support from their parents and also in the school context. Children shouldn’t feel the responsibility of having to save their own future. This is where adults and, above all, those with political responsibility come into play.

Let’s get a little more specific: I’ve noticed that the climate crisis is triggering acute anxiety in me. What can I do?

If fears arise, it can help to exchange ideas with like-minded people and to talk to friends and family about your own worries. Against the feeling of powerlessness, it can be helpful to become active in organizations, for example by joining local groups of the climate movement or getting involved in the political framework for climate protection.

Personal commitments, such as lifestyle changes, can also make you feel like you’re actively doing something. It is particularly important to find the balance between actively dealing with the climate crisis and opportunities to relax. If you notice that the fear is affecting everyday life, you should take a break and, for example, visit your family doctor or seek initial therapeutic advice.