A new study has found that nearly a million Canadians are experiencing climate anxiety at a level that significantly impacts their daily lives. The research, conducted by the University of Alberta and published in Nature Mental Health, surveyed over 2,400 Canadians aged 13 and above using a climate change anxiety scale.
The study revealed that 90% of respondents expressed concerns about climate change, with 68% experiencing some form of anxiety related to it. Approximately 2.35% of participants exhibited symptoms classified as “clinically relevant.” This figure translates to more than 980,000 individuals in Canada whose sleep, concentration, or overall daily functioning is negatively affected by climate change anxiety.
Lead researcher Sherilee Harper emphasized the importance of providing support for individuals grappling with climate anxiety. She suggested avenues such as therapy and community programs like climate cafes to facilitate discussions and address concerns. While taking action on climate change has been shown to alleviate anxiety, Harper emphasized the need for spaces where people can openly discuss their feelings without pressure to take immediate drastic actions.
The study also highlighted demographic trends in climate anxiety, showing higher rates among younger generations, Indigenous communities, women, individuals with lower household incomes, and those residing in Northern Canada. The research underscores the widespread psychological impacts of climate change and the necessity of acknowledging and addressing these concerns in society.