Climate change, and a lack of action to fight it, is harming young people’s mental health

As government representatives gather at COP29 in Azerbaijan, urgent attention must be given to the impact of climate change on youth mental health. Psychiatrists have shared research showing a link between higher temperatures and increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in young people. Their study revealed a 1.3% rise in emergency department visits for suicidal thoughts and behaviors for every 1°C increase in daily average temperature. This association was consistent even on days with moderate temperatures. Disadvantaged areas were found to have a higher risk, highlighting the importance of addressing inequality in climate change impacts. Leaders at COP29 must prioritize mental health in climate action, transitioning away from fossil fuels to improve youth mental health and reduce suicide risk. Public health systems should also be prepared to address the mental health impacts of climate change at all levels.

Full Article