Women, Young People Experience More Climate Anxiety: Leipzig & TU Dortmund Study

• Leipzig University and TU Dortmund University psychologists conducted the first thorough worldwide analysis of climate anxiety
• To gain a better understanding of the psychological effects of climate change, researchers compiled studies from around the world

Using information from 94 studies with 170,747 participants in 27 countries, psychologists from Leipzig University and TU Dortmund University have carried out the first global meta-analysis of climate anxiety.

According to their research, which was published in Global Environmental Change, some demographics—such as women, young people, people with a left-leaning viewpoint, and those who are frequently exposed to information about climate change or who have a strong concern for the environment—are noticeably more likely to experience climate anxiety.

The analysis demonstrates that awareness of the scientific consensus regarding the causes of climate anxiety and the conviction that climate change poses a real and serious threat are closely related. Although it can have a detrimental effect on mental health, the researchers also discovered that it is positively correlated with eco-friendly behavior and support for climate policy, indicating that it can spur action.

Climate anxiety is a distinct phenomenon that differs from general anxiety disorders, according to lead author Dr. Clara Kühner. Professor Hannes Zacher, a co-author, describes it as a "double-edged sword" that both stresses and inspires people.

The researchers call on public leaders, including journalists, politicians, and business executives, to recognize these issues and assist in directing them toward constructive climate action. Additionally, they advise vulnerable groups to receive focused mental health support.

Interestingly, despite the fact that the effects of climate change are frequently more severe in the Global South, the majority of the reviewed studies were from the Global North. The group stresses that in order to comprehend regional variations in climate anxiety, more varied research is required.

The researchers intend to update the meta-analysis frequently and investigate additional topics, such as how climate knowledge shapes anxiety, in light of the growing public concern and ongoing scholarly interest.