Eco anxiety: Scary new trend among teens

A growing number of children and teenagers are worried, depressed, and angry about climate change. That’s not surprising. Climate change has been affecting almost all countries, invading daily life in a way that can no more be ignored. The terrifying backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic has added to it. And kids know they just do not have the power to stop adults from spoiling a world which they are fated to inhabit!  

What is eco anxiety and what are the symptoms?  
The term eco anxiety denotes a feeling of existential dread linked with an overwhelming sense of responsibility to deal with ecological changes so huge that the fear becomes paralysing. Symptoms include low mood, disturbed sleep, panic attacks, and feelings of anger, guilt, or helplessness. When it comes to ecology, uncontrollability, unpredictability, and uncertainty are important factors, because we are dealing with massive changes across the world. Focusing on immediate demands, like those of school or social activity seem insignificant to young people whose future feels so threatened.   

Is there any data to support eco anxiety?  
Unfortunately, yes. An American Psychiatric Association report in October 2020 showed that 67% of respondents aged 18–23 years felt somewhat or extremely anxious about the impact of climate change. 63% of those aged 24–39 years also showed similar anxiety. According to a poll by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, UK in November, 2020, 57% of child and adolescent psychiatrists have seen patients suffering from eco anxiety. In a 2019 nation-wide poll in USA, 57% of teenagers said that climate changes make them feel afraid, and 52% said that it makes them feel angry. 

How can adults help with eco anxiety? 
Discussion with people aged 8 to 20 should be encouraged, and their feelings should be acknowledged and validated. But there has to be a balance. Psychiatrists and educators suggest that too much emphasis on climate catastrophe can create undue terror and hopelessness among young people. Instead, a positive atmosphere of hope should be built where kids have a voice in climate and ecological issues.