Reflections from a Youth Activist
Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it’s a human issue, and its impact on mental health is profound.
Ahmad, a 20-year-old youth activist who migrated to Australia from Afghanistan, shares his personal experiences of navigating the emotional toll of climate advocacy while witnessing the health and wellbeing impacts of climate change in his home country. His insights highlight the connections between mental health and the escalating climate crisis, especially for those most impacted.
Ahmad reflects on the burnout that often accompanies advocacy work, “As advocates, there’s always this feeling of not doing enough, especially when you see all the amazing work happening on the ground but don’t reach your advocacy goals. It certainly impacts you—emotionally and mentally. You start asking yourself, ‘Why am I doing this if it’s not leading to meaningful outcomes?’” He adds, “For climate activists, there’s a lot of burnout due to the lack of action.” Ahmad’s experience is not unique. Anxiety and concern about the future impacts of climate change are rising, especially among young people and activists. This has led to a phenomenon known as ‘eco-anxiety,’ characterised by feelings of distress, helplessness, and anticipatory worry. In Australia, research indicates that approximately 40% of the population experiences some level of eco-anxiety or distress related to climate change1 and around 75% of young Australians are worried about their future2.
The mental health strain isn’t just about the advocacy process for Ahmad—it’s also about witnessing the real-world impacts of climate change. Ahmad’s memories of Afghanistan, where drought and food insecurity are daily realities, weigh heavily on him. “Climate change has caused massive displacement in my home country. The poor economic situation is influenced by climate change. Drought leads to food shortages, and families are left without enough resources. People’s life expectancy is much shorter. There’s so much stress, anxiety and prolonged trauma for people. I often feel a sense of hopelessness, and sometimes even anger at the situation.” Yet, amidst this, Ahmad feels a sense of purpose in his advocacy, “I can’t do much on my own, but when I research what could help, it shifts me into a more optimistic space.”
For Ahmad, there’s also a frustration in seeing how global systems, corporate negligence, and geopolitical conflict exacerbate these issues. “Corporations that contribute the most to climate change aren’t doing enough to help alleviate or mitigate its effects.” Ahmad adds,
“Whilst there is a growing movement for net zero, there isn’t a lot of news on how we’re going to do it. It seems that these agendas take a long time to be implemented, but we actually don’t have time. It’s exhausting thinking about it.” Yet, despite the overwhelming challenges, Ahmad remains optimistic. “Having lived in two very different circumstances, I’m grateful for the privilege of advocacy here in Australia. There’s more growing movements, and youth voices shaping policy. I’ve met MPs who care deeply about climate and human rights issues, and that gives me hope.” Ahmad aspires to a career in politics and hopes this will result in further influence in climate action.
Ahmad’s message during Mental Health Week is clear: the intersections between climate change and mental health cannot be ignored. “We need to look at climate change holistically—beyond just air and water. It’s about living conditions, health, mental health and the global impacts. The people most affected are often those already on the margins, and we need consistent, global efforts to address these challenges.”
Ahmad calls for continued dialogue and action: “We need to keep up the pressure for renewable energy transitions and listen to the voices of those most impacted. We really need government action.” We know this perspective is shared by many, with Orygen’s recent report stating that a key driver of climate-related anxieties is government inaction3.
Ahmad’s insights reflect a growing concern among experts about the mental health implications of climate inaction. Climate change is significantly impacting mental health in Australia. We know that psychological distress rises following extreme weather events and disasters4, and rural communities facing prolonged droughts have higher rates of depression and suicide5. Extreme weather and rising temperatures also contribute to increased hospital admissions for mental health conditions6. These trends highlight the growing psychological toll of climate change.
This Mental Health Week, let’s recognise that climate change isn’t just a future problem—it’s affecting both physical and mental health here and now. We need continued climate action and resilience efforts to ensure that people impacted by climate change are supported.
If you’re struggling with your mental health due to climate change, here are some strategies experts recommend that might help:
- Take personal action. Reducing your carbon footprint through everyday choices can give you a sense of agency and purpose.
- Engage in advocacy. Becoming a voice for climate action can help channel your anxiety into meaningful change.
- Take intentional breaks from climate change information: Regularly stepping away from constant updates can reduce psychological stress and prevent burnout, allowing you to recharge without abandoning the cause.
- Connect with others who share your concerns and can provide mutual support. While personal actions are important, working with others toward systemic solutions can address broader concerns, offering both relief and hope for the future.
- Focus on the positive changes that are happening (e.g., renewable energy growth, conservation efforts) can help counterbalance feelings of despair.
- Talk to a professional about your concerns, like a psychologist or counsellor.
By taking proactive steps and seeking support, you can stay engaged without feeling overwhelmed, while building resilience and holding onto hope for a healthier and more sustainable future.
If you or someone you know needs to talk to someone, contact Your Community Health’s Counselling team. Our generalist Counselling service addresses emotional, social and mental wellbeing, giving you the tools and guidance to navigate life’s stressors. Find out more here: https://www.yourch.org.au/contact-us/forms/counselling-referral-form/