Your health, climate change, and mental health
Click the blue links to access educational and community resources for further information.
Providers and patients: The information below can be downloaded and printed in English and Spanish from the links below. Each download also contains a QR code for access to live links.
Did you know?
Climate disasters and forced migration have been linked to PTSD, depression, and anxiety. As children learn more about climate change, we are seeing a rise in “eco-anxiety” or “eco-grief" as they worry about a future with the threats of a changing climate. Feelings may include fear, anger, sadness, etc. Extreme weather because of climate change limits opportunities for physical/outdoor activities and social events, which can make isolation worse.
Action plan
- Engage in conversations
- Discuss with friends, family, and children about climate and how it is impacting our lives.
- Promote awareness about the effects of climate in your community.
- Watch for warning signs: Look for changes in children’s behavior, attitude, motivation, appetite, sleep patterns and school performance.
- Take action
- Develop a safety plan.
- Remove access to harmful objects such as firearms and ammunition.
- Seek professional help with your medical provider to discuss therapy and/or other options.
- Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 if you or a loved one are experiencing emotional distress, thoughts of self-harm, or a suicidal crisis.
Community resources
Explore the Climate Ready Map to see how climate change impacts your neighborhood.
Start a climate group using the Toolkit for Youth Leaders to encourage climate action.
Plan your trip with public transport.
Connect with climate creators on social media platforms.
Register to vote: https://www.usa.gov/register-to-vote.