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Lass-Hennemann J, Sopp MR, Ruf N, Equit M, Schäfer SK, Wirth BE, Michael T. Generation climate crisis, COVID-19, and Russia-Ukraine-War: global crises and mental health in adolescents. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:2203-2216. [PMID: 37814081 PMCID: PMC11255088 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02300-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Climate change, COVID-19, and the Russia-Ukraine War are some of the great challenges of our time. These global crises affect young people in a particularly vulnerable phase of their lives. The current study aimed to assess the impact of these crises on mental health (depression, anxiety, and health-related quality of life) in secondary school students in Germany. Furthermore, we assessed known predictors of mental health, such as socio-economic factors, individual life stressors, and resilience factors (self-efficacy, expressive flexibility) as covariates. In our sample of 3998 pupils, pandemic- and climate-related distress were linked to greater depression and anxiety and reduced health-related quality of life. War-related distress was associated with greater anxiety. Critically, these associations remained significant after controlling for all covariates, supporting the incremental predictive value of the crises measures. The study reveals a significant impact of the crises on the mental health of the current generation of adolescents. As such it suggests that mental health policies should include interventions that help youth to cope with the stress caused by the crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Lass-Hennemann
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - M Roxanne Sopp
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Norma Ruf
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Monika Equit
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Sarah K Schäfer
- Division of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology and Psychotherapy, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research, Mainz, Germany
| | - Benedikt E Wirth
- Department of Cognitive Assistants, German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI), Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Tanja Michael
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany.
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Saarland University, Campus A1 3, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany.
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2
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Yi J, Yi Y. Exploring influences of environmental information, beliefs and self-efficacy on nurses' climate health behaviours and their relationships. J Adv Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38877643 DOI: 10.1111/jan.16269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To create a healthy nursing environment and protect human health in response to climate change, it is essential to encourage behaviour change among nurses. Although numerous studies have been conducted on nurses to address climate change, few studies have explored the relationships of factors that influence and promote nurses' climate health behavioural behavioural change, making it difficult to determine how nurses should act and prioritise regarding climate health behaviours. AIMS To investigate influential environmental factors on climate health behaviours among nurses through the causal relationships between environmental information, environmental beliefs and environmental self-efficacy using the Information-Motivation-Behavioural Skills (IMB) model. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. METHODS This study recruited 186 nurses working in hospitals nationwide in July 2023. Self-reported questionnaires (Climate, Health, and Nursing Tool; National Environmental Consciousness Survey; New Ecological Paradigm Scale; Personal Efficacy Scale) were used to collect the data. Path analysis was performed. RESULTS The factors influencing nurses' climate health behaviours were environmental information, environmental beliefs and environmental self-efficacy. Environmental self-efficacy was found to be more influenced by the exogenous variables of environmental information than environmental beliefs and to be the most significant factor affecting climate health behaviours. CONCLUSIONS It is more important for nurses to obtain environmental information than environmental beliefs to achieve the goal of climate health behaviours. This in turn, will lead to personal self-efficacy that nurses can mitigate the climate crisis. Their strong self-efficacy affects their climate health behaviours. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION Nurses should seek and draw on the appropriate environmental information related to climate health change and nurses with environmental self-efficacy become environmental nursing leaders, encouraging other health care workers to participate actively in climate health behaviours and continuously carry out the behaviours within daily life, hospital and community environments. IMPACT The study addressed the lack of relationship research on factors influencing nurses' climate health behaviours, emphasizing the importance of accessing environmental information to foster self-efficacy. Nurses with heightened self-efficacy can lead healthcare professionals in climate health actions. REPORTING METHOD This research has adhered to relevant EQUATOR and STROBE. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No Patient or Public Contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeongmin Yi
- College of Nursing, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
- Uijeongbu ST. Mary's Hospital, Uijeongbu, South Korea
| | - Yeojin Yi
- College of Nursing, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
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3
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Maduneme E. Some Slice of Climate Anxiety … Is Good: A Cross-Sectional Survey Exploring the Relationship Between College Students Media Exposure and Perceptions About Climate Change. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 29:45-56. [PMID: 38775847 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2024.2354370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Climate change anxiety among young people of college age has become a prevalent topic, with debate on whether climate change anxiety is maladaptive or can motivate climate change action. Using a cross-sectional survey of 440 college students, the study investigated the relationships between college students' climate anxiety, climate change media exposure, efficacy beliefs, and pro-environmental intentions. The findings revealed among other things, that climate anxiety had a significant curvilinear relationship with pro-environmental intentions with moderate anxiety predicting positive intentions and higher levels of anxiety were associated with negative intentions. Media exposure also positively predicted increased climate anxiety. Implications for climate change mitigation are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Maduneme
- School of Journalism and Communication, University of Oregon, Eugene, USA
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4
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Elshamy RA, Eladl AM, Zaitoun MF. Climatic changes: knowledge and adaptation behavior to heat-related illness among solid waste disposal workers. J Egypt Public Health Assoc 2024; 99:9. [PMID: 38705924 PMCID: PMC11070406 DOI: 10.1186/s42506-024-00155-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Earth's climate changes are progressing at an alarming rate. One of the most severe effects of climate change is extreme heat. This study aimed to assess knowledge and adaptation behavior to heat-related illness (HRI) among solid waste disposal workers in the 10th of Ramadan City, Egypt, and to study the predictors for their knowledge and adaptation behavior. METHODS An exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted on 220 solid waste disposal workers. A structured interview questionnaire was used to assess the studied workers' sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, heat exposure risk, and their knowledge, and adaptation behavior. RESULTS The results showed that 40% and 30% of participants had adequate levels of total knowledge and adaptation behavior, respectively. There was a statistically significant relationship between workers' knowledge and both age and education. There was a statistically significant relationship between workers' adaptation behavior and age, duration of employment, working hours, and education. A binary logistic regression for significant predictors of knowledge and adaptation behavior showed that age and education were the most significant predictors. CONCLUSION Solid waste disposal workers were at high risk of HRI due to their low levels of knowledge and adaptation behavior regarding HRI. Educational health programs that guide workers to follow healthy behaviors and prevent HRI are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghda A Elshamy
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt.
| | - Afaf M Eladl
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Mona F Zaitoun
- Department of Community, Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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Paek HJ, Hove T. Mechanisms of Climate Change Media Effects: Roles of Risk Perception, Negative Emotion, and Efficacy Beliefs. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38444097 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2024.2324230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
In the context of climate change communication, this study explores the process through which exposure to media messages about a risk leads to recommended behavioral intentions. We propose a model of this process based on the Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM) and the Risk Perception Attitude (RPA) framework. Our model analyzes how risk perception, negative emotion, and efficacy beliefs mediate and moderate the effects of media messages on people's intention to engage in pro-environmental behaviors. A national survey among 1,000 adults in South Korea was analyzed, and the fitting of PROCESS Models 4 and 15 yielded four main findings. First, media exposure was directly and positively related to risk perception, negative emotion, and pro-environmental behavioral intention. However, the significant relation between media exposure and behavioral intention was partly conditional upon efficacy beliefs. Second, risk perception and negative emotion were also significantly related to behavioral intention conditional upon efficacy beliefs. Third, efficacy beliefs significantly moderated the relation between risk perception and behavioral intention, but not between negative emotion and behavioral intention. Fourth, efficacy beliefs served as a moderator for the indirect effect of media exposure on behavioral intention via risk perception and negative emotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Jin Paek
- Department of Advertising and Public Relations, Hanyang University ERICA Campus
| | - Thomas Hove
- Department of Advertising and Public Relations, Hanyang University ERICA Campus
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von Gal A, Fabiani G, Piccardi L. Climate change anxiety, fear, and intention to act. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1341921. [PMID: 38487656 PMCID: PMC10937346 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1341921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Climate change anxiety (CCA) is an emerging yet not clearly defined construct. Here, we examine the relationship between CCA and climate change-related fear in response to messages differently framing uncertainty and anticipation concerning climate change, exploring how the former differs from general anxiety measures. To this purpose, young and healthy volunteers were assigned to three different framing conditions. Their emotional responses as well as eco-emotions and beliefs about climate change were collected. By employing a Bayesian approach, we found that framing the consequences of climate change effectively induces heightened fear and that CCA strongly predicted fear levels, while general anxiety measures did not. Overall, these results reflect CCA's unique and specific nature in influencing climate change-related fear. Interestingly, we found fear to predict intention scores only following the framings that did not effectively induce action intentions, consistent with prior findings on fear without efficacy framing. Instead, reading about the negative consequences motivated action the most. Following this framing, we found that eco-anger, instead of fear, consistently predicted intentions to engage in climate action. These results emphasize the complex interplay between CCA, eco-emotions, efficacy, and behavioral engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro von Gal
- Spatial Cognition Lab, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Greta Fabiani
- Spatial Cognition Lab, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Piccardi
- Spatial Cognition Lab, Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- San Raffaele Cassino Hospital, Cassino, Italy
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7
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Chung SJ, Jang SJ, Lee H. Eco-anxiety and environmental sustainability interest: A secondary data analysis. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2023; 32:1462-1472. [PMID: 37021349 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is an increasingly important global concern, requiring urgent action. To achieve environmental sustainability, identifying the predictors influencing individuals' actions is necessary. Individuals with negative psychological responses to climate change, such as eco-anxiety, are more likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviour. However, eco-anxiety and other perceptions associated with climate change and sustainability can differ based on an individual's unique background. Therefore, this study aimed to identify potent predictors of individuals' environmental sustainability interest and examine the impact of eco-anxiety on environmental sustainability interest. Data from 459 South Korean adults (19-65 years) were included in this secondary analysis. Eco-anxiety, climate change risk perception and future event cognition were assessed by the Climate Change Anxiety Scale, the Climate Change Risk Perception Inventory and Future Event Questionnaires, respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that eco-anxiety was the most potent predictor of environmental sustainability interest, followed by climate change risk perception, age 60-65 years, future event cognition and age under 30 years. Considering that eco-anxiety is the most potent predictor of environmental sustainability interest, mental health nurses should assess patients' eco-anxiety level and help them recognize and manage their anxiety levels appropriately. Age-specific approaches should be considered for interventions to enhance environmental sustainability interest. Further studies are needed to determine the cut-off anxiety level that influences the positive impact on environmental sustainability interest and to develop programmes to manage eco-anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia J Chung
- Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sun Joo Jang
- Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Haeyoung Lee
- Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, South Korea
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Mento C, Damiani F, La Versa M, Cedro C, Muscatello MRA, Bruno A, Fabio RA, Silvestri MC. Eco-Anxiety: An Evolutionary Line from Psychology to Psychopathology. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2053. [PMID: 38138156 PMCID: PMC10744953 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59122053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
According to the scientific literature, climate change, due to human activities, can damage the environment, with psycho-physical consequences for humans. The scientific literature has highlighted how severe weather events can cause fear, stress, concern for the future, and eco-anxiety. In light of this information, this study aims to explore the concept of eco-anxiety. However, climate change is still perceived as a secondary problem. It would also be worth investigating the real importance that people attach to environmental issues compared to other circumstances, such as wars or pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Mento
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.C.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.)
- Psychiatry Unit, Polyclinic Hospital University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.D.); (M.L.V.); (M.C.S.)
| | - Federica Damiani
- Psychiatry Unit, Polyclinic Hospital University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.D.); (M.L.V.); (M.C.S.)
| | - Michele La Versa
- Psychiatry Unit, Polyclinic Hospital University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.D.); (M.L.V.); (M.C.S.)
| | - Clemente Cedro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.C.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.)
- Psychiatry Unit, Polyclinic Hospital University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.D.); (M.L.V.); (M.C.S.)
| | - Maria Rosaria Anna Muscatello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.C.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.)
- Psychiatry Unit, Polyclinic Hospital University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.D.); (M.L.V.); (M.C.S.)
| | - Antonio Bruno
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (C.C.); (M.R.A.M.); (A.B.)
- Psychiatry Unit, Polyclinic Hospital University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.D.); (M.L.V.); (M.C.S.)
| | - Rosa Angela Fabio
- Department of Economics, University of Messina, Via dei Verdi 75, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Maria Catena Silvestri
- Psychiatry Unit, Polyclinic Hospital University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria 1, Contesse, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.D.); (M.L.V.); (M.C.S.)
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Pop V, Ozunu A, Petrescu DC, Stan AD, Petrescu-Mag RM. The influence of media narratives on microplastics risk perception. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16338. [PMID: 37933256 PMCID: PMC10625762 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Media are the interface between scientists and citizens, communicating and interpreting the risk message and powerfully influencing individual awareness, public debate, and, hence, people's behavior. Pollution by microplastics (MPs), a threat to public health and terrestrial and marine ecosystems, has received research, media, and public interest. However, how MPs environmental and health risks are reflected in the media and assessed in the scientific literature does not find consensus over time. To date, few studies have examined social aspects around MPs, such as, for example, factors that influence awareness and perception of the risk of MPs. In this context, the objective of this study is twofold. First, we determined if media narratives influenced Romanians' awareness of MPs, and second, we investigated if media narratives influenced Romanians' perceptions of MPs health and environmental risk. Method An online survey was conducted among 417 Romanian respondents. The questionnaire had 21 questions. The questions were related to the awareness of MPs, the perceived health risk of MPs, the perceived environmental risk of MPs, the intensity of exposure to media narratives about the MPs impact on health and the environment, and the demographics. Binary logistic regression was run to identify what media narratives influenced MPs awareness and risk perception. In recent times, mass media has shaped perceptions of health and environmental risks, driven by events like COVID-19 and global climate change. Our study relies on media narratives as its foundation. Results Binary logistic regression showed that the awareness of MPs is influenced by the media narrative "Microplastics in the sea threaten fish stocks" (p = 0.001). When the frequency of exposure to this media narrative increases, the probability of reporting awareness of MPs increases. Likewise, an increase in age represents a higher probability of reporting awareness of MPs. The perceived health risk of MPs, with the highest weighting, was related to the dependent variable "Leakage of harmful chemicals from MPs affects the soil" (p = 0.014). Conclusions Media narratives about plastic and MPs pollution have increased over time, influencing the perception of this risk. The study argues the need for accurate and balanced media reporting on MPs to prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure that people clearly understand MPs risks. Furthermore, a closer examination of people's perceptions supports the design of appropriate interventions to reduce plastic consumption, thereby decreasing the risks of MPs pollution with benefits for human health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pop
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Ozunu
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Disaster Management Training and Education Centre for Africa (DiMTEC), University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Dacinia Crina Petrescu
- Department of Hospitality Services, Faculty of Business, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Cluj, Romania
- Department of Economy and Rural Development, Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Adrian-Daniel Stan
- Department of International Studies and Contemporary History, Faculty of History and Philosophy, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Ruxandra Malina Petrescu-Mag
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Economy and Rural Development, Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
- Doctoral School “International Relations and Security Studies”, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Calder RSD, Schartup AT. Geohealth Policy Benefits Are Mediated by Interacting Natural, Engineered, and Social Processes. GEOHEALTH 2023; 7:e2023GH000858. [PMID: 37650049 PMCID: PMC10463563 DOI: 10.1029/2023gh000858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Interest in health implications of Earth science research has significantly increased. Articles frequently dispense policy advice, for example, to reduce human contaminant exposures. Recommendations such as fish consumption advisories rarely reflect causal reasoning around tradeoffs or anticipate how scientific information will be received and processed by the media or vulnerable communities. Health is the product of interacting social and physical processes, yet predictable responses are often overlooked. Analysis of physical and social mechanisms, and health and non-health tradeoffs, is needed to achieve policy benefits rather than "policy impact." Dedicated funding mechanisms would improve the quality and availability of these analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S. D. Calder
- Department of Population Health SciencesVirginia TechBlacksburgVAUSA
- Global Change CenterVirginia TechBlacksburgVAUSA
- Faculty of Health SciencesVirginia TechRoanokeVAUSA
- Department of Civil and Environmental EngineeringDuke UniversityDurhamNCUSA
| | - Amina T. Schartup
- Geosciences Research DivisionScripps Institution of OceanographyLa JollaCAUSA
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Daeninck C, Kioupi V, Vercammen A. Climate anxiety, coping strategies and planning for the future in environmental degree students in the UK. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1126031. [PMID: 37564302 PMCID: PMC10409990 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1126031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is increasing recognition of the mental health burden of climate change and the effects on general well-being, even in those who have not (yet) experienced direct impacts. Climate anxiety, which is prominent among young people in particular, describes a state of heightened distress about the (future) effects of climate change. Despite evidence of a link between engagement in climate change issues and heightened climate anxiety, there is a dearth of knowledge on how this affects emerging professionals preparing for careers in the environmental sector. Furthermore, there is a paucity of literature regarding the extent to which young adults are coping with their thoughts and feelings about climate change, and the extent to which they consider climate change in making future plans. Methods The aim of this study was to understand the occurrence and personal management of climate anxiety in UK university students through an online questionnaire. This study was the first to investigate the association between climate anxiety, coping strategies and future planning in university students. Results and discussion Environmental degree students (n = 249) reported greater levels of climate anxiety, more frequent employment of all three examined coping strategies and in particular considered climate change as a factor in their career plans, as compared to their non-environmental degree counterparts (n = 224). Problem-focused coping was the most commonly endorsed strategy, although the prior literature on coping suggests that this may not be sustainable for individually intractable problems. Highly climate-anxious students were more likely to consider climate change in all five decision-making domains, including family planning, long-term habitation, career, financial and travel decisions. This study has identified a need to communicate effective climate anxiety coping strategies to environmental practitioners, university students and educators. Additional research is required to validate the study findings and investigate what motivates students to incorporate climate change into future plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cami Daeninck
- Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vasiliki Kioupi
- Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Education, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ans Vercammen
- Centre for Environmental Policy, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- The School of Communication and Arts, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
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Innocenti M, Santarelli G, Lombardi GS, Ciabini L, Zjalic D, Di Russo M, Cadeddu C. How Can Climate Change Anxiety Induce Both Pro-Environmental Behaviours and Eco-Paralysis? The Mediating Role of General Self-Efficacy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3085. [PMID: 36833780 PMCID: PMC9960236 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
While it has been shown that climate change anxiety (emotional distress response to climate change) can enhance pro-environmental behaviours (PEBs) in some subjects, in others it can induce eco-paralysis, thus leading individuals to avoid any form of engagement in actions against climate change. This study aims to clarify which factors influence the relationship between climate change anxiety and the disposition to PEBs, focusing on the role of self-efficacy as a mediating factor. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 394 healthy subjects living in Italy who completed the Pro-Environmental Behaviours Scale (PEBS), the General Self-Efficacy scale (GSE), and the Climate Change Anxiety Scale (CCAS). As a result, the mediation model showed a positive direct effect of the cognitive impairment subscale of CCAS on PEBS and an indirect negative effect of the cognitive impairment subscale of CCAS on PEBS mediated by GSE. These findings show that climate change anxiety has simultaneously two different effects on individuals: it directly encourages PEBs, and indirectly may have detrimental effects on PEBs such as eco-paralysis. Consequently, therapeutic approaches to treat climate change anxiety should not be aimed at rationalising irrational thoughts but rather at helping patients develop coping strategies such as PEBs which, in turn, foster self-efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Innocenti
- Associazione Italiana Ansia da Cambiamento Climatico (AIACC), 50144 Florence, Italy
| | - Gabriele Santarelli
- Associazione Italiana Ansia da Cambiamento Climatico (AIACC), 50144 Florence, Italy
| | - Gaia Surya Lombardi
- Section of Hygiene, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Italian Institute for Planetary Health (IIPH), 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ciabini
- Associazione Italiana Ansia da Cambiamento Climatico (AIACC), 50144 Florence, Italy
| | - Doris Zjalic
- Section of Hygiene, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Italian Institute for Planetary Health (IIPH), 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Di Russo
- Section of Hygiene, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Italian Institute for Planetary Health (IIPH), 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Cadeddu
- Section of Hygiene, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Italian Institute for Planetary Health (IIPH), 00168 Rome, Italy
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Ramadan R, Randell A, Lavoie S, Gao CX, Manrique PC, Anderson R, McDowell C, Zbukvic I. Empirical evidence for climate concerns, negative emotions and climate-related mental ill-health in young people: A scoping review. Early Interv Psychiatry 2023. [PMID: 36641809 DOI: 10.1111/eip.13374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climate change represents a serious threat to human health, including mental health, due to both the traumatizing effects of extreme climate events and the psychological effect of worry about climate change. OBJECTIVES This scoping review aims to search the literature for original research investigating mental health and climate-related negative emotions in young people. Findings will help to understand the current landscape, gaps in the literature, and provide recommendations for future youth mental health research and practice. METHODS A scoping review of the literature examining negative emotions associated with climate change in young people was undertaken. Studies published prior to March 2022 were included if they examined mental ill-health (e.g., symptoms of depression or anxiety) or negative emotions (e.g., distress, worry, concern) associated with the threat of climate change. RESULTS Of 3939 articles screened, 26 met the inclusion criteria. Together, studies show that young people are worried about climate change. Negative emotions about climate change were correlated with symptoms of mental ill-health. Studies also explored coping strategies young people use to manage their distress caused by climate change. DISCUSSION The limited literature in this area indicates a key gap in youth mental health research. While available evidence suggests that young people are concerned about climate change, more research is needed on the relationship between climate-related negative emotions and mental ill-health. Clinicians should assess for and address climate-related negative emotions in young people. Mental health leaders are urged to advocate for actions to mitigate the mental health impact of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Ramadan
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Orygen, North Western Mental Health, Melbourne Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alicia Randell
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzie Lavoie
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline X Gao
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paula Cruz Manrique
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebekah Anderson
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caitlin McDowell
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Isabel Zbukvic
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Leonhardt M, Granrud MD, Bonsaksen T, Lien L. Associations between Mental Health, Lifestyle Factors and Worries about Climate Change in Norwegian Adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191912826. [PMID: 36232127 PMCID: PMC9565126 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is a serious global health threat that has an impact on young people's lives and may influence their mental health. Since the global climate strike movement, many adolescents have expressed worries about climate change. Thus, the aim of this study is to examine the prevalence of worries about climate change, and factors associated with worries about climate change, in a representative sample of Norwegian adolescents. Data were retrieved from Ungdata, an annual nationwide online youth survey. Adolescents (n = 128,484) from lower and upper secondary school participated in the study. Data were analysed descriptively and with logistic regression. Most of the adolescents were not worried or a little worried about climate change. Girls, pupils who had at least one parent with higher education and pupils from urban areas were more inclined to worry about the climate. Adolescents who worried about the climate had more symptoms of depression than those who were less worried. While worry about climate change may constitute an additional burden for adolescents experiencing depressive symptoms, such worry can also be seen to reflect climate-friendly values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marja Leonhardt
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Concurrent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorders, Innlandet Hospital Trust, 2381 Brumunddal, Norway
- Correspondence:
| | - Marie Dahlen Granrud
- Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2418 Elverum, Norway
| | - Tore Bonsaksen
- Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2418 Elverum, Norway
- Department of Health, VID Specialized University, Campus Stavanger, 4024 Stavanger, Norway
| | - Lars Lien
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Concurrent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorders, Innlandet Hospital Trust, 2381 Brumunddal, Norway
- Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2418 Elverum, Norway
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Lawrance EL, Thompson R, Newberry Le Vay J, Page L, Jennings N. The Impact of Climate Change on Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence, and its Implications. Int Rev Psychiatry 2022; 34:443-498. [PMID: 36165756 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2022.2128725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Converging global evidence highlights the dire consequences of climate change for human mental health and wellbeing. This paper summarises literature across relevant disciplines to provide a comprehensive narrative review of the multiple pathways through which climate change interacts with mental health and wellbeing. Climate change acts as a risk amplifier by disrupting the conditions known to support good mental health, including socioeconomic, cultural and environmental conditions, and living and working conditions. The disruptive influence of rising global temperatures and extreme weather events, such as experiencing a heatwave or water insecurity, compounds existing stressors experienced by individuals and communities. This has deleterious effects on people's mental health and is particularly acute for those groups already disadvantaged within and across countries. Awareness and experiences of escalating climate threats and climate inaction can generate understandable psychological distress; though strong emotional responses can also motivate climate action. We highlight opportunities to support individuals and communities to cope with and act on climate change. Consideration of the multiple and interconnected pathways of climate impacts and their influence on mental health determinants must inform evidence-based interventions. Appropriate action that centres climate justice can reduce the current and future mental health burden, while simultaneously improving the conditions that nurture wellbeing and equality. The presented evidence adds further weight to the need for decisive climate action by decision makers across all scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L Lawrance
- Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London, UK.,Mental Health Innovations, UK.,Grantham Institute of Climate and the Environment, Imperial College London, UK
| | | | | | - Lisa Page
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, UK
| | - Neil Jennings
- Grantham Institute of Climate and the Environment, Imperial College London, UK
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Soutar C, Wand APF. Understanding the Spectrum of Anxiety Responses to Climate Change: A Systematic Review of the Qualitative Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:990. [PMID: 35055813 PMCID: PMC8776219 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19020990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge about climate change may produce anxiety, but the concept of climate change anxiety is poorly understood. The primary aim of this study was to systematically review the qualitative literature regarding the scope of anxiety responses to climate change. The secondary aim was to investigate the sociodemographic and geographical factors which influence experiences of climate change anxiety. METHODS A systematic review of empirical qualitative studies was undertaken, examining the scope of climate change anxiety by searching five databases. Studies were critically appraised for quality. Content analysis was used to identify themes. RESULTS Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The content analysis was organised into two overarching themes. The scope of anxiety included worry about threats to livelihood, worry for future generations, worry about apocalyptic futures, anxiety at the lack of response to climate change, and competing worries. Themes pertaining to responses to climate change anxiety included symptoms of anxiety, feeling helpless and disempowered, and ways of managing climate change anxiety. Relatively few studies were identified, with limited geographical diversity amongst the populations studied. CONCLUSIONS The review furthers understanding of the concept of climate change anxiety and responses to it, highlighting the need for high-quality psychiatric research exploring its clinical significance and potential interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne P. F. Wand
- Specialty of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney 2050, Australia;
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2033, Australia
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