Climate Change : Health of Young People
Climate change is no longer a distant phenomenon; it is a present and pressing crisis that has transformed the lives of millions worldwide. This study examines how climate change profoundly affects the physical and mental health of adolescents and young people in Bangladesh, Guatemala, and Nigeria.
In this qualitative research, 196 participants aged 12 to 25 from the three countries shared their perspectives and experiences regarding the impacts of climate change on their lives and health. Findings indicate that extreme climatic events—such as floods, storms, droughts, and excessive heat—not only cause environmental damage but also have broad implications for public and social health, particularly among vulnerable populations. Participants reported tangible consequences of climate change, including disease, food insecurity, increased gender-based violence, and psychological distress. Simultaneously, feelings of hopelessness about the future and distrust toward local institutions were common among young people.
Physical Dimensions of Climate Change Impacts
In Bangladesh, recurrent flooding has contaminated water sources, leading to outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea and cholera. During crisis periods, access to healthcare services and essential reproductive health products, including menstrual hygiene items, becomes severely limited.
In Guatemala, the heavy reliance of local economies on agriculture means that irregular rainfall and drought reduce food production, resulting in higher prices, malnutrition, and food insecurity. Economic pressures under these conditions have, in some cases, led families to arrange early marriages for girls as a cost-reduction strategy.
In Nigeria, rising temperatures and prolonged droughts have altered household labor divisions, with women increasingly engaging in male-dominated economic activities. These shifts have contributed to family tensions and, in some cases, increased domestic violence.
Psychological and Social Dimensions of the Climate Crisis
Beyond physical threats, the study highlights a growing mental health crisis among young people. Many participants reported experiencing feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, and depression. They perceive climate change as limiting their educational and employment opportunities and threatening their personal and social development. This phenomenon, referred to in the literature as "eco-anxiety," directly affects quality of life and academic motivation. In certain regions, feelings of powerlessness in the face of environmental crises have become a major mental health challenge.
Gender Inequalities in Climate Vulnerability
Across all studied regions, girls and young women are disproportionately affected. Natural disasters often coincide with increased gender-based violence, early marriage, and reduced access to reproductive health services. These findings illustrate that climate change carries not only environmental consequences but also significant social and human rights implications, demanding urgent attention from policymakers.
Policy and Strategic Recommendations
- Expanding mental health services and social support programs for young people.
- Promoting meaningful youth participation in climate decision-making and sustainable development planning.
- Ensuring gender equity through programs aimed at preventing violence and supporting girls’ education.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that climate change significantly impacts not only the environment but also the physical, mental, and social health of young people in developing countries. However, youth are not passive victims; they possess the capacity and motivation for action and change. Empowering young people through climate education, participation in policymaking, and the development of locally adapted resilience programs can pave the way for a more just and sustainable future. As the authors emphasize: "Young people are not merely victims of the climate crisis; they are central actors in achieving climate justice and sustainable health."
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