Episode 9: Climate anxiety

TW: This episode contains discussion of content that may be upsetting to some listeners. Climate anxiety has become increasingly prevalent in schools and universities, where action groups such as School Strike 4 Climate have rapidly emerged in response to the threat of climate catastrophe. And with natural disasters increasing in frequency amid repeated warnings from agencies like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a burden has fallen on younger generations set to inherit the repercussions of decisions made by today's policy-makers. Today's first guest, 16-year-old Victorian Joey Thompson, explains how he channels his own climate anxiety through action and activism for change. Next, Alix is joined by Associate Professor Fiona Charlson, a research fellow at the University of Queensland and leading expert on the mental health impacts of climate change. Fiona shares insights into the growing trend of climate anxiety in young people, and how people like Joey can actually use it for good. If this episode has caused you distress, please reach out to a loved one or call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Embrace is supported by its principal partner, Rio Tinto. Follow our host @dralwoolard on Instagram.