Panic attacks, visceral thoughts: Fear of environmental doom is on the rise among UAE’s children

Panic attacks, visceral thoughts: Fear of environmental doom is on the rise among UAE’s children

International studies show that up to two thirds of young people around the world are 'extremely worried' about the ongoing climate crisis

Published: Wed 2 Nov 2022, 3:19 PM

‘Eco-anxiety' the chronic fear of environmental doom, is on the rise among children these days, with environmental literacy high on the agenda in most UAE schools.

International experts have noted that they see a growing number of children and young people being distressed about climate crisis and the state of the environment.

According to a recent study published in The Lancet, almost two-thirds of 10,000 students in the age group of 16-25 in various countries were “very or extremely worried” about climate change, while 84 per cent were moderately worried.

Mahira Zakiuddin, Wellington Director Counselling, GEMS Education explains why this is so prevalent today. During the launch of Wellington Mental Health Week in October 2022, GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis hosted a panel discussion between Wellington students and mental health professionals. One discussion topic was ‘Mental health and sustainability’.

Students spoke about the anxiety that many of them experience when listening or watching different climate disasters, such as the floods in Pakistan and the wildfires in Australia and North America.”

“While the American Psychology Association has yet