YOUTH CLIMATE ANXIETY: EXPLORING THE PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON YOUNG PEOPLE

Climate change has evolved into a pressing psychological challenge for today’s youth, beyond its well-known environmental implications. This research investigates the prevalence and intensity of climate anxiety among young individuals in Bangalore, India. Using a structured questionnaire distributed to 384 respondents, the study analyzes emotional responses, cognitive patterns, and the effect of climate anxiety on daily functioning and well-being. The findings reveal that youth experience considerable emotional and cognitive distress linked to climate change, impacting sleep, academic performance, and social engagement. These results emphasize the need for holistic mental health interventions and youth-focused climate education. Keywords: Climate anxiety, Youth mental health, Environmental psychology, Climate change, Mental Stress.