India is grappling with severe climate challenges. This year alone, devastating floods have struck states like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab. From January to September, the Centre for Science and Environment reported extreme weather events on 270 out of 273 days.
Beyond the physical damage, a hidden crisis is brewing. A 2023 Aangan study in West Bengal revealed that climate change’s financial impact forced 16% of surveyed adults to take drastic measures—sending children to work, marrying them off, or pulling them out of school. Alarmingly, 65-75% of young people knew someone affected by these choices. Such changes can have lasting emotional effects on children and teens.
Many kids witness climate disasters and feel helpless. A 2022 WHO review on eco-anxiety highlighted deep emotional responses among young people—ranging from sadness to fear about the future. In a 2021 Lancet Planetary Health study, 59% of participants aged 16-25 from ten countries, including India, reported being very worried about climate change. Over half expressed feelings of sadness, anxiety, and guilt. Nearly 45% said that climate anxiety impacted their daily lives, with 75% finding the future daunting.
A recent 2024 Chintan study examined urban children’s views on climate change. It found that 89% of participants, from both marginalized and middle-class backgrounds, experienced eco-anxiety. This anxiety can affect them long-term, hindering focus, relationships, and job prospects as adults. The study warned that if unaddressed, climate impacts on youth might lead to a 5.5% decline in India’s GDP by 2047.
Addressing this problem requires serious attention. Schools, parents, and communities must understand eco-anxiety and take steps to help children cope. Teaching environmental science through hands-on activities and sharing success stories can empower kids. Teachers need training and tools to support vulnerable students in their communities.
Eco-anxiety is a significant part of how children learn today. After climate disasters, trained counselors should be on the ground to help affected families, especially those struggling emotionally and financially. Additional resources from the National Disaster Management Authority are essential.
Funding from the government and private donors will be crucial. Addressing eco-anxiety amidst ongoing climate issues and hazardous air quality needs systemic support and strong political commitment.
The road ahead is challenging, but acknowledging eco-anxiety and its implications is a vital first step. For more detailed insights, the full WHO report on Eco-Anxiety provides valuable information on the emotional impact of climate change.
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climate change,india economy,mental health,lancet planetary health study,eco-anxiety
