Talking with Kids About Climate Anxiety

River’s Edge psychologist Chelsey Wood was recently featured in the St. Albert Gazette, speaking about how growing awareness of climate change is affecting the emotional well-being of children and teens.

A 2021 international study found that nearly two in five youth feel anxious about climate change, and many describe feeling sad, powerless, or uncertain about the future. Chelsey notes that these emotions often show up in counselling sessions — not only as fear about the planet, but as deeper feelings of overwhelm, loss of control, or guilt about not “doing enough.”

“When young people talk about climate change, they’re really talking about fear and uncertainty,” Chelsey explains. “The goal isn’t to remove the anxiety completely, but to help them express it, find community, and discover small, meaningful ways to make a difference.”

At River’s Edge, our therapists are seeing more young clients grappling with eco-anxiety and other climate-related stress. We help families navigate these conversations with empathy and hope — acknowledging the real concerns while also fostering resilience, connection, and agency.

Read the full article in the St. Albert Gazette →

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Supporting Your Child’s Emotional Well-Being

If your child is feeling anxious about climate change — or any global issue — it’s important to:

• Listen first. Validate their feelings before offering reassurance.

• Stay grounded in action. Encourage small, hopeful steps such as reducing waste or helping with a community garden.

• Model balance. Let them see you care about the planet and your own well-being.

If you’d like more support, River’s Edge Counselling Centre offers individual and family counselling to help children and parents navigate worry, anxiety, and life transitions.

Learn more about our Child & Youth Counselling Services