Taut Exhale by Hannah Paul

Young people are at the forefront of the climate crisis, experiencing its most devastating impacts firsthand — from “natural” disasters and extreme weather events to environmental racism in our communities. These challenges take a deep toll on youth mental health, fueling grief, uncertainty, and a sense of powerlessness that are not just personal struggles but collective realities, compounded by a government that has failed to respond with the urgency and care that this crisis demands.

In our new report, Unnatural Disasters: The Climate Crisis and Youth Mental Health, [[link removed]] Kayla Tawa and Tatiana Villegas share learnings from five focus groups with young people across the United States. The report also includes art and poetry from youth contributors, embedding moments of hope and healing amid difficult experiences and feelings.

Participants offered valuable insights into how the climate crisis impacts young people, particularly their mental health. Notably, they understand the issue more clearly than those in power. While policymakers often downplay or even obstruct climate action, young people recognize it as a crisis rooted in colonialism and capitalism — systems that prioritize profit over people and the planet. To create real change, solutions must address these root causes rather than reinforce the status quo.

We found that young people have a clear vision for a just and sustainable future: one that acknowledges their leadership, protects our communities, and responds to the full scale of the crisis. They are calling for investments in the mental health supports they already seek, including ensuring reliable access to green spaces for all; climate policies co-designed with youth, such as those that integrate Indigenous knowledge and traditional ecological practices; and a shift in power to the people and communities most affected, especially Black and Indigenous youth. By embracing these solutions, we can move beyond ineffective incremental change and toward a future where both people and the planet thrive.

Young people are fighting for our liberation by demanding a government that prioritizes community care over systems of harm. They envision a future where investments are directed toward holistic wellbeing, mental health systems acknowledge intersecting oppressions, and youth-led climate policies address the root causes of environmental injustice. Dreaming beyond a scarcity mindset, they are calling for a system built on care, justice, and collective resilience.

To truly support youth in the fight for climate justice, we must listen to their voices and act on their vision for a sustainable, equitable future. We invite you to read the full report and join us in advocating for the youth-led solutions needed to address the climate and mental health crises. Together, we can help build the future that we all deserve.

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