A Quiet Storm: Climate Change and the Mental Health of Caribbean Youth

Roseau, Dominica - In the idyllic landscapes of the Caribbean, where the calm blue waters invoke tranquility and the forests tower, there's a quiet storm brewing. It's not one of thunder and lightning, but of rising sea levels, intensifying hurricanes, and scorching heat waves. 

This storm, fueled by climate change, is taking a heavy toll on the mental health of young people across the region. The Caribbean is at the forefront of climate change's impacts. From the devastating hurricanes that batter coastal communities to the persistent heatwaves, the worsening weather conditions have seeped into every aspect of our Caribbean lives.

Caribbean youth see destruction firsthand

For us young people of the Caribbean, this isn't just an environmental issue; it's a deeply personal one. The effects of climate change are palpable. We bear witness to the destruction and erosion of our family’s land, the lack of fruits and vegetables we would have otherwise had if it wasn’t so hot all the time, and inflation after hurricanes that makes us uncertain of our future. 

The prevalence of 'eco-anxiety'

This constant exposure to environmental degradation can lead to a phenomenon known as eco-anxiety. Eco-anxiety is the overwhelming fear and stress caused by the looming threat of environmental destruction. Worrying about the safety of our homes during hurricane season can be challenging, especially when some of us have experienced destruction already. This persistent anxiety can manifest in various ways, from sleep disturbances and mood swings to feelings of helplessness and despair. 

Glimmers of hope

But amidst all of this, there's also a glimmer of hope. The concept of eco-optimism is gaining traction among Caribbean youth, as they refuse to succumb to despair and instead channel their energy into positive action. They're leading beach clean-ups, advocating for renewable energy, and demanding climate justice from world leaders. In the face of adversity, we're finding strength in unity and resilience in the face of adversity. 

The Young Caribbean Minds Wellness Journey Activity Book highlights that being an eco-optimist and volunteering in group activities related to the climate may help youth feel less fearful about climate change and natural disasters. Check out this discussion and so many other wellness topics in this interactive workbook as our Let’s Unpack It and the UNICEF Caribbean National Youth Mental Health Focal Points divulge their approach to climate change. 

Caribbean youth share strategies to cope

Caden, British Virgin Islands: "Volunteering with the national disaster response team after a hurricane helped me learn what to do for my mental health during a natural disaster and how to help others."

Maria, Dominica: "After the hurricane, I got involved in helping the environment because it helped me to feel like I was contributing to a change instead of just feeling hopeless." 

Rianka, St. Vincent & the Grenadines. "The volcanic eruption heightened my appreciation for nature, motivating me to contribute to environmental protection efforts."

Our eco-optimism alone is not enough to combat the mental health challenges posed by climate change though. Caribbean governments and international organizations must prioritize mental health support services for young people, ensuring that we have access to counseling, therapy, and other resources to cope with eco-anxiety. By taking proactive steps to address climate change, we can help alleviate the burden on the mental health of Caribbean youth. 

In conclusion, the worsening climate change in the Caribbean is not just a matter of environmental concern; it's also a mental health crisis. Extreme weather events and environmental degradation is taking a toll on the wellbeing of young people across the region. However, amidst the despair, there's also hope. Caribbean youth are rising to the challenge, embracing eco-optimism, and advocating for a more sustainable future. But we can't do it alone. It's time for governments, organizations, and individuals to come together to support the mental health of Caribbean youth and address the root causes of climate change before it's too late.