Parents are learning how to discuss climate change with anxious children

As more kids express eco-anxiety, therapists encourage parents to validate their fears while guiding them toward hopeful action.

Nina Dietz reports for Inside Climate News

In short:

Youth climate plaintiffs like Olivia Vesovich have sparked conversations on how climate change impacts mental health, especially for children.
Therapists now recognize the emotional harm caused by eco-anxiety and “moral injuries” in children who feel betrayed by adults’ inaction.
Educators and parents are developing resources to help kids navigate their fears while empowering them to take part in climate solutions.

Key quote:

“I felt paralyzed… like I couldn’t live my life, because I knew that every single action I took I was helping destroy the planet.”

— Olivia Vesovich, youth climate plaintiff

Why this matters:

Eco-anxiety in children can lead to long-term emotional consequences like cynicism and disconnection. Providing realistic, supportive conversations about climate change can help children process their fears and stay engaged in efforts for a sustainable future.

insideclimatenews.org

Senator Whitehouse puts climate change on budget committee’s agenda

For more than a decade, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse gave daily warnings about the mounting threat of climate change. Now he has a powerful new perch.

Parents are learning how to discuss climate change with anxious children

Earth's worsening climate crisis demands immediate action

Wildlife populations drop sharply as habitat loss continues

Florida’s homelessness crackdown complicates hurricane recovery

Insurance costs squeeze commercial real estate as climate risks rise

Contamination from flooded industrial sites during major hurricanes is a growing concern

Midwest eyed as safer business spot amid rising climate risks

Western states could see significant carbon cuts with new energy transmission projects

Houston area has more than 100 unauthorized air pollution events already this year

An EHN analysis finds nearly half were related to flaring.

LISTEN: Mokshda Kaul on making the clean energy transition work for all

“Coalitions become this interesting way to create buy-in.”

Op-ed: Is plastic the biggest climate threat?

A plastics treaty for the climate and health must address overproduction of plastics and head off the petrochemical and plastic industry’s planned expansion.

Residents say Pennsylvania has failed communities after state studies linked fracking to child cancer

Last year Pennsylvania Department of Health studies showed increased risk of childhood cancer, asthma and low birth weights for people living near fracking. Advocates say not enough has been done since.

The fossil fuel industry is disproportionately harming low-income and minority women: Report

“Women, in all of their diversity, must be at the center of climate and energy decision-making.”

Op-ed: People need shelter from climate change — their health hangs in the balance

The discourse on climate resilience must include affordable housing policy solutions.