Climate crisis: Effects on youth mental health and cognitive functioning

¹ Nukus branch of the State Institute of Art and Culture of Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan
² Nukus State Pedagogical Institute named after Ajiniyaz, Uzbekistan
³ Uzbekistan State Conservatory Nukus branch, Uzbekistan
⁴ Uzbek State University of World Languages, Uzbekistan

^* Corresponding author: moyanov.iqlasbay@mail.ru

Abstract

The climate crisis is increasingly recognized for its broad-ranging impacts, including potential effects on the mental health and cognitive functioning of young people. Current literature highlights growing concerns about how climate change contributes to stress, anxiety, and cognitive impairments among adolescents. This review aims to assess the psychological impact of climate change on youth, focusing on how climate-related stressors and environmental changes affect mental health and cognitive development. We conducted a review of existing research, synthesizing studies that examine the effects of climate-related disasters, prolonged environmental stress, and future sustainability concerns on the mental health and cognitive functioning of adolescents. The review finds that exposure to climate-related disasters and ongoing environmental stressors is associated with increased rates of stress and anxiety among youth. Additionally, these stressors have been linked to impairments in cognitive functions such as attention and memory. To address the mental health and cognitive impacts of the climate crisis on young people, there is a need for preventive measures including climate education in schools, enhanced psychological support services, and community resilience programs. An interdisciplinary approach is essential for mitigating these effects and supporting the well-being of future generations.