The relationship between Climate change, Mental Health and Pro environmental behaviours
Climate change is the greatest global health challenge of the 21st century, with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warning of catastrophic consequences for both physical and mental health. Eco-emotions, particularly eco-anxiety, have been linked to increased pro-environmental behaviours, potentially serving as a coping mechanism for climate distress. However, other eco-emotions, such as helplessness and climate-related depression, may reduce engagement in climate action, exacerbating distress and contributing to poor mental health outcomes in young people. Given the existing youth mental health crisis, it is crucial to understand how eco-emotions influence climate action to develop interventions that support both psychological well-being and sustainability.
Personal experiences of Extreme Weather Events (EWE) significantly impact mental health, as demonstrated by recent devastating storms in the UK, floods in Spain, and extreme heat waves in India. While some studies suggest EWE exposure can motivate pro-environmental behaviours, research in this area remains scarce. Furthermore, little is known about how government climate action—or inaction—shapes eco-emotions and pro-environmental behaviours. Evidence suggests that proactive climate policies foster pro-environmental behaviours, while government inaction may lead to increased distress and disengagement.
This project aims to examine the complex interplay between eco-emotions, EWE exposure, and government action in shaping climate-related behaviours across different regions. By understanding these dynamics, we can inform policies and interventions that not only promote sustainability but also protect mental health, ensuring that climate action becomes both a means of adaptation and a tool for psychological resilience.