Young people in the UK are reportedly struggling to cope with the ongoing climate emergency, with many feeling anxious and helpless about the situation. Jem, a 24-year-old nature conservationist from Somerset, says they have been losing sleep over the state of the environment.
“It keeps me up at night,” says Jem, who wishes to remain anonymous to protect their professional reputation. “I worry about what future I should be planning for. Will I be underwater in a few years? Will I have to wear a gas mask to work every day?”
Jem’s worries have taken a toll on their mental health, leading them to take medication for depression and anxiety. “Antidepressants can’t fix these problems when it’s an external issue,” they say. “It’s not me that needs fixing, it’s the world we’ve created that’s the problem.”
Other young people have shared similar stories of anxiety and despair. Claire, a 25-year-old activist from Manchester, says she can’t stop worrying about the future. “I feel like the apocalypse is coming and I’m not ready for it,” she says. “I keep hoarding food and supplies, just in case.”
Meanwhile, Tom, a 23-year-old student from London, says he’s lost all hope for the future. “What’s the point of even trying when we’re all going to die anyway?” he says. “I’ve started binge-watching TV shows and eating junk food all day, because what’s the point of being healthy if we’re all going to be underwater soon?”
Despite their struggles, many young people are trying to stay positive and find ways to cope. Emma, a 22-year-old artist from Bristol, says she’s been using her creativity to stay grounded. “I’ve been painting pictures of endangered animals and imagining a world where they’re safe,” she says. “It gives me hope that we can make a difference if we all work together.”
While the climate emergency is undoubtedly a serious issue, these young people’s struggles show that it’s important to find ways to stay positive and keep fighting for a better future – even in the face of overwhelming odds. As Jem puts it, “We need to remember that we’re not alone in this fight, and that together, we can make a difference.”
