The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for European nations to integrate mental health strategies into their climate action plans, a recommendation highlighted in a report released on November 10. The report, titled “Strengthening mental health in a changing climate: insights from interventions across the WHO European Region,” coincides with the ongoing United Nations Climate Change Conference in Antalya, Türkiye.
The findings of the report indicate that individuals do not need to directly experience a climate disaster, such as floods or wildfires, to suffer mental health repercussions. Concerns about climate change alone can lead to distress, interrupted sleep, and impaired daily functioning. Additionally, extreme heat is noted to exacerbate existing mental health issues, while direct exposure to climate-related events is associated with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Long-term environmental changes and loss of livelihoods contribute to chronic stress among affected populations.
Particularly at risk are young people, who are predicted to endure significant climate impacts. A survey discussed in the report, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, found that up to 65% of young respondents from Finland, France, Portugal, and the United Kingdom are worried about climate change, with 37% reporting that it hampers their ability to function. This study surveyed 10,000 individuals aged 16 to 25 across ten countries, including Australia, Brazil, India, Nigeria, the Philippines, and the United States.
Dr. Ledia Lazeri, Regional Adviser for Mental Health at WHO Europe, noted that while feelings of worry and sadness regarding climate change are valid, they do not necessarily indicate a mental disorder. She emphasized the importance of support when these feelings become overwhelming or interfere with daily life.
“Support matters when distress becomes overwhelming, affects daily life or leaves people feeling powerless,” Dr. Lazeri stated, underscoring the need for young people to develop resilience and take meaningful action, while ensuring access to professional support for those in need.
The report reviews 20 interventions across 15 countries, addressing both climate-related distress and psychosocial support following extreme weather events. For instance, in Slovenia, the response to severe floods in 2023 included collaboration among government bodies, health professionals, humanitarian organizations, and local communities. Mobile mental health teams, hotlines, and continued support initiatives provided aid to thousands after the immediate crisis.
In Estonia, the Estonian Green Movement initiated a project called “Coping with Climate Anxiety,” which produced training materials for youth workers, peer-support guidance, and workshops focusing on emotional understanding and coping skills for individuals aged 16 to 25.
Despite growing awareness of mental health issues related to climate change, the report notes that efforts across Europe remain disjointed, with significant gaps in evidence and program evaluation. It advocates for clearer guidelines on when community-based support is adequate and when specialized care is necessary, highlighting the potential of educational institutions and nature-based initiatives in bolstering resilience.
Francesca Racioppi, head of the WHO European Centre for Environment, Climate Change and Health, pointed out that while public concern often centers on visible impacts of climate change, such as injuries from floods, the psychological trauma of experiencing or witnessing extreme weather can have lasting effects.
“Climate action and mental health protection need to go hand in hand,” Racioppi stated, reinforcing the critical need for integrated approaches.
This report builds on previous WHO recommendations. A policy brief released in June 2022 at the Stockholm+50 conference highlighted the severe mental health risks posed by climate change and urged countries to incorporate mental health support into their climate strategies. WHO Europe’s second European Programme of Work for 2026–2030 prioritizes climate and health action, alongside the promotion of mental health and well-being.
