Climate Anxiety Among Undergraduates at an R1 University in the United States

Climate anxiety is an emerging public health concern, particularly among young adults. Using survey data, this study examines the prevalence, emotional dimensions, and predictors of climate anxiety among 547 undergraduate students at a large university in the U.S. Mountain West. Results show that undesirable responses—especially powerlessness, frustration, and worry—are most common, though some students report hope and optimism. We assessed climate anxiety based on responses to ten questions, eight taken from a global survey of adolescents and young adults. We find that climate anxiety in the surveyed population scales nearly isometrically with generalized anxiety and depression (assessed using the GAD-7 scale) and is relatively common. Additional predictors of climate anxiety include whether climate change is a top personal concern, frequency of exposure to climate information—especially online and in classrooms—and political ideology. Academic major was not a significant predictor, contrary to expectations; although, environmental studies students on average had higher climate anxiety than students from other majors. Findings highlight climate anxiety as both a mental health risk and a potential motivator for engagement, underscoring the need for supportive interventions and engagement opportunities for undergraduate populations.