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climate change anxiety

Parents are learning how to discuss climate change with anxious children

As more kids express eco-anxiety, therapists encourage parents to validate their fears while guiding them toward hopeful action.

Nina Dietz reports for Inside Climate News

In short:

  • Youth climate plaintiffs like Olivia Vesovich have sparked conversations on how climate change impacts mental health, especially for children.
  • Therapists now recognize the emotional harm caused by eco-anxiety and “moral injuries” in children who feel betrayed by adults’ inaction.
  • Educators and parents are developing resources to help kids navigate their fears while empowering them to take part in climate solutions.

Key quote:

“I felt paralyzed… like I couldn’t live my life, because I knew that every single action I took I was helping destroy the planet.”

— Olivia Vesovich, youth climate plaintiff

Why this matters:

Eco-anxiety in children can lead to long-term emotional consequences like cynicism and disconnection. Providing realistic, supportive conversations about climate change can help children process their fears and stay engaged in efforts for a sustainable future.

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Therapy groups for eco-distress are spreading globally to help people cope with climate anxiety
Credit: Nik/Unsplash

Therapy groups for eco-distress are spreading globally to help people cope with climate anxiety

Group therapy sessions, such as those offered by the Good Grief Network, are helping people around the world manage feelings of anxiety, grief and despair linked to climate change.

Nina Dietz reports for Inside Climate News.

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Psychiatrist leads climate-focused mental health initiatives

Psychiatrist leads climate-focused mental health initiatives

Psychiatrist Lise van Susteren pioneered the connection between climate change and mental health, creating professional networks and resources to address climate anxiety.

Nina Dietz reports for Inside Climate News.

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Teachers adapt to address emotional impacts of climate change

Teachers adapt to address emotional impacts of climate change

Educators are increasingly focusing on trauma-sensitive approaches to help students manage the emotional effects of climate change.

Nathalie Reid, Audrey Aamodt, and Jennifer MacDonald write for The Conversation.

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climate anxiety
Photo by Uday Mittal on Unsplash

Climate anxiety is real. Meet three therapists who are helping people cope with it

As climate anxieties increase, a small but growing number of mental health practitioners are working to address people's fears. These climate therapists are employing a range of tactics to help their patients cope with a changing world.
climate anxiety
Pixabay

How climate change is changing therapy

How anxiety about the planet’s future is transforming the practice of psychotherapy.
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