A study conducted by researchers from the University of Utah, led by researcher Jennifer Vollstad Shah, showed that participation in environmental and volunteer activities helps college students transform feelings of anxiety and frustration resulting from climate change into positive practical steps. The study included 547 college students and revealed that learning about scientific solutions and facing challenges enhances hope and the sense of ability to bring about change in environmental protection.
In the same context, the study showed that 54 percent of participating students frequently feel helpless due to climate change, while the percentage of those feeling frustrated reached 55 percent, compared to only 4 percent who feel great hope. These figures underscore the deep psychological impact of fears related to the environmental future on young people, necessitating effective interventions to mitigate these negative feelings.
For her part, the results indicated that spending time in nature, connecting with friends, taking care of personal health, along with acquiring knowledge about climate change, are factors that help students reduce feelings of helplessness. Furthermore, participating in environmental cleanup campaigns and local volunteer initiatives enhances the sense of being able to contribute tangibly to addressing environmental challenges.
The researchers also emphasized the importance of universities' role in providing psychological support to students, providing spaces to discuss their climate-related concerns, and expanding opportunities for their participation in volunteer activities. They pointed out that raising awareness and enhancing community participation help young people transform climate anxiety into initiatives and positive action that contribute to environmental protection and building a more sustainable future.
The study stressed the importance of transforming awareness of climate change risks into practical behaviors and practices, thereby enhancing the role of young people in protecting the environment, encouraging the adoption of more sustainable lifestyles, and participating in finding solutions to the climate challenges facing the world today.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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