This website contains content about suicide prevention. If life is in immediate danger, please call 000 immediately. If you’re feeling distressed but not in immediate danger, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 for free and confidential support.

Right By You is here for young people aged 13 and over. If you are under 12 years old, or worried about someone under 12, check out Kids Helpline for support and resources.

Climate change

Discover resources and support to help either yourself or someone you know who is experiencing stress or anxiety due to climate change.

shape-orange-asterisk

Climate change

Young people are experiencing high rates of climate anxiety.  Defined as a “heightened emotional, mental or somatic distress in response to dangerous changes in the climate system,” climate anxiety can present as a sense of hopelessness, grief, anger, guilt, and existential dread.

Recent research showed that 45% of global young people (ages 16–25) surveyed say climate anxiety and distress is affecting their daily lives and functioning, and 75% of young respondents believe ‘the future is frightening’. 

Climate anxiety is significantly related to young people’s perceived government inaction and associated feelings of betrayal. Conversations around climate change focus heavily on the most drastic and most negative facts, but there are also positive actions happening out there.

Photo credit: School Strike 4 Climate Australia 

More resources to help support someone experiencing climate anxiety

Participants of the Peoples Climate March in Washington, DC.

The good news about climate change – World Wildlife Fund

 

Read more
1920x1080_cmsv2_49e36a03-d186-59b7-9914-97a6b52b4daa-7298588

Positive environmental stories from 2023

 

Read more
Headspace tips for dealing with climate anxiety

Headspace – Tips for dealing with climate anxiety

[VIDEO]

Watch now

Was this page helpful?

Was this article helpful?
Yes No

Modal Content

Add groups below and assign an anchor link under “advanced” to create a modal. Link to it from a button and make the button style “modal”.

Carer Gateway

An Australian Government program providing free services and support for carers. If you care for a family member or friend with disability, a medical condition, mental illness, or who is frail due to age, then Carer Gateway can help you.  You can call on 1800 422 737.

CYDA

Learn more about the issues Australia’s young people with disabilities are facing through these resources or find contacts for support.

YesNo