Behavioral Health Stressors

Growing Climate Distress Among Children, Youth, and Young Adults

Climate change is directly and indirectly influencing mental health. Alongside high acute distress that people often experience as a result of climate disasters, broader climate distress can accumulate over time and increase the risk of mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Climate distress may be described as a hidden stressor, as it is often not recognized or acknowledged by health care providers or society at large, which can lead to a lack of appropriate support and resources for individuals experiencing it, which can further exacerbate distress. While climate distress is not a clinical condition, some populations will experience new behavioral health conditions as well as exacerbations of existing conditions with ongoing distress from the changing climate. Climate-related distress is increasing, especially among children, youth, and young adults. Various estimates are available, but a recent study found that among 1,000 people aged 16–25 years in the U.S., 46% said they were “very” or “extremely” worried about climate change, and 26% of respondents indicated that their feelings about climate change negatively affected their daily life and functioning.

Figure: 26% of the 1,000 people aged 16–25 years surveyed for the recent study reported a negative effect on at least one of the following: eating, concentrating, work, school, sleeping, spending time in nature, playing, having fun, and relationships. Figure from NCA5’s Human Health chapter, based on data from this study.

National Park Service: Opportunities to Explore the Benefits of Outdoor Engagement on Youth Behavioral Health

In the face of growing climate distress among children, youth, and young adults, the National Park Service (NPS) presents potential opportunities for recovery and resilience. Every year, nearly 300 million people visit the more than 400 National Park sites across the nation to enjoy these natural and cultural treasures. In addition to the learning and recreational activities they provide, parks are a valuable health resource. Mounting scientific evidence shows how exposure to green space improves mental health and adolescent mental well-being can be improved through participation in outdoor activities. Engaging youth in nature-based activities has been found to impart a sense of hope and agency in facing major stressors of today’s world, including climate change. With a strong emphasis on youth engagement, the NPS has the potential for making an even greater impact on the health and wellbeing of this and future generations. Further research is needed to better understand nature-based interventions and the kinds of outdoor activities that enhance the mental well-being of adolescents. The NPS plays a crucial role in this arena, as a land management agency that provides a diverse array of structured programming for approximately 50,000 youth annually including recreational, educational, volunteer, and career development opportunities.  

Figure. Youth engaging in the residential Youth Camping program in the summer of 2022 in Washington State. This NPS program combines education and job skills training with outdoor adventure for 16- to 18-year-olds. With the guidance of experienced field staff, youth crew members work on conservation, reforestation, and recreation projects, while developing leadership and teamwork skills. Participants earn money and potential high school credit while gaining job skills and professional references. Photo credit: Northwest Youth Corps.