Following Donald Trump's victory as the 47th president of the United States, the atmosphere surrounding climate change policies is plummeting to new depths of anxiety and concern. The election results have sent ripples of fear across environmental circles, with mental health experts emphasizing the importance of emotional resilience amid these turbulent times.
For many individuals aware of climate issues, the aftermath of the election reveals stark fears about the future. Trump's infamous stance on climate change—often dismissing it as a "hoax"—has many wondering what the next four years will bring. He has vowed to boost domestic oil production, remove funding for green initiatives, and dismantle protections for endangered species. All of this plays out against the increasing reality of rising global temperatures and worsening natural disasters, leaving alarm bells ringing louder than ever.
Emily Weston, a New York-based psychotherapist, aptly summarizes the widespread concern: "With respect to climate, there is very big reason to feel much more worried about the United States' participation—or lack thereof—in the global effort to curb carbon emissions and the effects it could have worldwide."
The repercussions of Trump's policies could resonate globally, prompting calls for collective action to safeguard the planet. Anna Graybeal, a psychologist from Texas, recounts her experience speaking with devastated clients the day after the election. “Throughout the day, I received messages from friends, family, and all my therapy clients. I can’t think of anyone who wasn’t distressed.” Many are now seeking help to traverse their growing climate anxiety.
This anxiety is not simply localized but appears to be widespread. A recent study surveying 16,000 young Americans from all 50 states showed overwhelming concern about climate change, with many experiencing heightened anxiety levels. The fears about the ramifications of Trump’s policies on education and environmental initiatives also led students to take action. Following the election results, over dozens of students from Philadelphia walked out of their classrooms, protesting the future they fear is at stake.
“We deserve to have safe schools. We deserve to have a future,” stated Clara Hensley, 17, highlighting the urgency among young people clamoring for change. Students are asserting their voices through organized protests, echoing sentiments shared across schools nationwide, as they channel their fear and anger toward taking meaningful action.
Climate activists' responses have coalesced around collective efforts like the Sunrise Movement, which aims to draw attention to climate issues and policies. Aster Chau, 17, from the Academy at Palumbo, articulated: "We are scared for our futures, and it’s about uplifting the youth.” While youth voter turnout dipped compared to previous years, enthusiasm and activism have not waned, with students committed to advocating for their beliefs.
Experts highlight another way to combat growing anxiety: participating in environmental activism. Collective actions not only promote feelings of agency but also provide hope and connectivity, counteracting isolation as communities grapple with the repercussions of climate-related policies. “Engaging helps combat feelings of isolation and fosters hope for change,” explained McKenna Parnes from her research.
While the emotional fallout continues, some international prospects are glimmering with urgency. On December 2, hearings at the U.N.’s International Court of Justice (ICJ) will address governments’ obligations to mitigate climate change. The looming prospect of another U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, raised by Trump's election, makes this case highly relevant. “There are real threats of, for example, another U.S. administration again pulling out of the Paris agreement,” noted Margaretha Wewerinke-Singh, legal counsel representing Vanuatu at the hearings.
Vanuatu's case could afford the small island nations some legal recourse against powerful nations' neglect concerning climate change, highlighting the need for international collaboration. While the U.S. may tilt away from its commitments, the case aims to raise global standards and obligations to combat climate issues regardless of political shifts.
The small island states are often overlooked, their voices lost among larger countries. Yet, they suffer the immediate impacts of climate challenges, such as higher temperatures and rising sea levels. Vanuatu's special envoy, Ralph Regenvanu, argues for the necessity of this ICJ opinion, vocalizing the urgency of their case against climate complacency from larger nations: “This is shared problem... we will continue to make the case to the incoming president of one of the world’s largest polluters.”
The results from the recent election have transformed discussions on climate change, as they directly challenge pre-established norms and responsibilities. Going forward, this intersection of mental health impact and international climate action indicates significant territory for societal engagement and responsibility. While climate anxiety amplifies, how individuals and communities respond could make all the difference, both for their state of mind and for the planet's well-being.
Experts stress the importance of not isolatng oneself during these times of distress. "The most important thing is to not isolate with oneself, because it can keep those initial kind of traumatized reactions somewhat stuck," Weston advises. Finding support—whether from family, friends, or community groups—remains pivotal for individuals grappling with their emotions as they face the uncertain road of climate politics under Trump's leadership.
With the looming presidency and uncertain future for environmental policies, it’s clear the stakes have never been higher. Whether through personal efforts to cope with anxiety, engaging with activism, or watching the ICJ proceedings, there’s no denying the interconnected dilemma between mental health and climate action. What remains to be seen is how individuals, especially youth—the generation inheriting these challenges—will choose to engage and advocate for their futures.
