If you are in distress, you can call or text 988 at any time. If it is an emergency, call 9-1-1 or go to your local emergency department.

Eco-Anxiety and Climate Distress

Eco-anxiety is the chronic fear or distress related to environmental change and the impacts of climate change. This fear can stem from direct experience of extreme weather events — such as wildfires, floods, droughts, or extreme heat — or from ongoing concerns about the planet's future.

Published: August 2026

Climate concern is widespread in Canada. A 2026 national survey of 4,232 people in Canada found that 75% are somewhat or very concerned about climate change. Recent Canadian research also suggests that climate-related distress is becoming more severe for some individuals, with more than one million people in Canada reporting clinically relevant symptoms of climate-change anxiety.

Eco-anxiety can be a normal response. Feeling worried, sad, frustrated, or concerned about climate change is not necessarily a mental health problem. Many experts view these emotions as a reasonable and healthy response to a changing environment. In some cases, these feelings can motivate people to learn more, prepare for climate-related events, connect with others, and take meaningful action. However, when distress becomes persistent, overwhelming, or interferes with daily life, additional support may be helpful.

Mental Health Impacts of Climate Change

Recent Canadian evidence has linked both gradual environmental change and extreme weather events to a range of mental health outcomes, including:

  • Emotional distress
  • Eco-anxiety and climate anxiety
  • Depression
  • Worsening of existing mental health conditions
  • Increased stress following climate-related disasters and disruptions

These impacts may result from direct experiences (such as wildfires, floods, droughts, or extreme heat) or from concerns about future environmental change.

Who May Be Most Affected?

Eco-anxiety and climate-related distress may disproportionately affect:

  • First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities
  • Young people
  • Older adults
  • Women
  • People with pre-existing mental health conditions
  • People living in areas heavily affected by extreme weather events
  • Communities facing social, economic, or structural barriers that reduce their ability to respond to climate impacts

Coping with Eco-Anxiety

Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognize that your emotional response to climate change is valid. Naming your feelings — worry, grief, anger — can help you process them rather than push them away.

Limit Doomscrolling: Set intentional limits on how much climate-related news you consume. Staying informed is important, but constant exposure to distressing content can worsen anxiety.

Take Meaningful Action: Channelling concern into action — whether through community involvement, advocacy, or personal choices — can reduce feelings of helplessness and restore a sense of agency.

Connect with Others: Sharing your concerns with trusted friends, family, or community groups can reduce isolation and build resilience.

Prepare for climate-related events: Taking practical steps to prepare for extreme weather can help reduce feelings of helplessness and improve your sense of control. Consider:

  • Creating an emergency plan for your household
  • Preparing an emergency kit
  • Learning about local risks such as heat waves, floods, or wildfires
  • Checking in with family members, neighbours, and community supports during emergencies

Take Care During Extreme Heat

Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heat events across Canada. During periods of extreme heat:

  • Stay hydrated
  • Limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day
  • Check on family members, neighbours, and vulnerable community members
  • Follow local public health guidance

Taking steps to protect your physical health can also support your mental well-being.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need immediate emotional support, call or text 9-8-8, Canada’s Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24 hours a day in English and French.