Created on 2022-12-14 06:52
Published on 2022-12-14 07:01
What do young people worry about?
Ask any teenager today about the things that they worry about, and likely they are very different from what the previous generations worried about. No longer is finding a job the top most area of concern. Young people realize they have much more options today compared to others. Of course there are uneven distributed opportunities, but by and large the opportunity space has increased. Young people are especially not worried about owning things and this is probably the first generation which will rent more than own, and espousing shared economy fully.
The things that they are really concerned about are Climate Change and Mental Health
Climate change and mental health are increasingly being recognized as interconnected issues, with the potential for climate change to negatively impact mental health, particularly in young people. And their sense of social justice. It is hence imperative to address these in a holistic manner.
The psychological effects of climate change can take many forms. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, can cause anxiety and stress, especially if they result in loss of life or damage to property. The fear of future disasters can also contribute to mental health issues, as can the uncertainty and lack of control that come with climate change. Emerging out of the Covid Crisis, young people are wary of history repeating itself with social isolation and lockdowns.https://www.linkedin.com/embeds/publishingEmbed.html?articleId=7360239883275575178&li_theme=light
In addition, the impact of climate change on natural environments can lead to feelings of loss and grief. As climate change causes the loss of wildlife and the degradation of ecosystems, young people may experience feelings of sadness and distress. The loss of natural habitats and the extinction of species can also have a profound psychological impact, as these changes can alter the way we experience and understand the world around us. In addition, the prospect of a future in which the natural world is drastically altered by climate change can be overwhelming for young people who care about the environment.
Furthermore, climate change can also exacerbate existing mental health issues. For example, the heatwaves and extreme temperatures that are associated with climate change can worsen conditions such as anxiety and depression. In addition, the displacement and migration of people caused by climate change can lead to social isolation and other mental health issues.
This is also the first generation which will probably live up to 100 years, and with increasing automation, will have a relatively better quality of day to day life. This is however, also the first generation which will really feel the impact of loneliness and social disconnect due to changing family structures, migration, economic opportunities disappearing overnight.
As the effects of climate change become more pronounced, many young people may experience increased levels of anxiety, stress, and depression. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as fear for the future, loss of loved ones or homes, and the general uncertainty that comes with living in a rapidly changing world. It is important for young people to have access to support and resources to help them cope with the psychological effects of climate change. This could include therapy, counseling, and other mental health services, as well as support from friends, family, and communities. In addition, providing young people with opportunities to get involved in climate action, such as volunteering for environmental organizations or participating in political advocacy, can help to empower them and give them a sense of agency and control over their future.
Most importantly, addressing the root causes of climate change, such as the overconsumption of resources and the reliance on fossil fuels, is crucial for mitigating its negative impacts on mental health. This requires collective action at the global level, including the implementation of policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.
It is important for individuals, communities, and governments to recognize the psychological effects of climate change and take action to support the mental well-being of young people. https://www.linkedin.com/embeds/publishingEmbed.html?articleId=8987175180107725214&li_theme=light
Thats it for now. Till next week, take care!
Ashwin
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Ashwin Naik is the co-founder of Manah Wellness
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