Therapeutic strategies to manage climate distress among young people

Abstract

The impact of climate change on mental health is increasingly evident, particularly among young people (16–25 years old), ranging from acute distress after extreme weather events to more persistent feelings of anxiety, grief, and uncertainty regarding the future. This Viewpoint explores how mental health care for young people can be improved to more effectively respond to the psychological impacts of climate change. Rather than proposing a new treatment model, this Viewpoint provides a starting point for clinicians by examining how existing therapeutic approaches could be applied, adapted, or reconsidered in the context of climate change. Furthermore, a range of therapeutic approaches commonly used in youth mental health care, including cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, schema therapy, mindfulness and resilience-based interventions, nature-based approaches, empowerment and activism engagement, community-based interventions, and pharmacological treatments, are discussed for their potential relevance. We highlight both the strengths and limitations of these approaches when addressing climate distress. Finally, we outline key priorities for clinical practice, service development, and future research to support the mental health of young people in a changing climate.