Climate Anxiety Grips College Students, but Coping Resources Are Scarce, University of Utah Study Finds

A new interdisciplinary study from the University of Utah reveals that climate change is a major source of anxiety for college undergraduates, many of whom feel powerless and frustrated about the planet’s future. The research found that these feelings are not limited to environmental science majors; students across disciplines report significant distress over global warming. Despite the widespread prevalence of climate anxiety, the study highlights a critical shortage of mental health resources tailored to help students cope with eco-related stress. Lead researchers emphasize that universities must do more to address this growing mental health challenge, as young people increasingly view climate change as a direct threat to their future. The findings underscore the urgent need for campus-wide support systems, from counseling services to climate-focused curricula, to help students transform anxiety into action. As the climate crisis intensifies, colleges face mounting pressure to equip the next generation with both emotional resilience and practical tools for sustainability.