Examining the Mental Health Effects of Climate Change and Ecological Crises on Children - Practice Tools
Tracks
Ballroom 2 - In-Person Only
| Tuesday, March 25, 2025 |
| 10:40 AM - 11:00 AM |
| Ballroom 2 |
Overview
Carly Dober, Enriching Lives Psychology
Presenter
Miss Carly Dober
Principle Psychologist
Enriching Lives Psychology
Examining the Mental Health Effects of Climate Change and Ecological Crises on Children - Practice Tools
Abstract
Parents, guardians, and educators are also grappling with the dual responsibility of supporting the mental health of their children while actively advocating for climate action and systemic change. This presentation explores the mental health effects of climate change through a psychological lens, focusing on the intertwined roles of advocacy and caregiving, and offers nature-based therapeutic interventions to support young people's mental health.
Drawing from current research, I will introduce evidence-based contemplative nature practices, such as mindfulness, eco-therapy, and grounding techniques, which have been shown to reduce anxiety and promote well-being in young people. These practices not only help individuals manage climate-related distress but also foster a deeper connection with nature and a sense of empowerment in facing environmental crises.
The presentation will incorporate the latest research on nature-based therapeutic interventions, demonstrating their efficacy in clinical practice and how they can be adapted for use in schools, homes, and community settings. Attendees will be guided through exercises that are accessible and can be easily integrated into everyday life, making them practical tools for educators, therapists, parents, and community leaders alike. These exercises will focus on promoting emotional regulation, resilience, and a positive connection with the natural world.
Three Key Learnings:
1. Understanding the Psychological Impact of Climate Change: Health professionals will gain insights into how climate change and ecological crises contribute to increased anxiety, stress, and mental health challenges, particularly among young people. They will learn how these issues manifest in clinical settings and the unique mental health burdens faced by both children and caregivers as they navigate these environmental threats.
2. Effective Nature-Based Therapeutic Practices: Attendees will learn about evidence-based nature therapy and contemplative practices, such as mindfulness, eco-therapy, and grounding techniques, which have been shown to reduce climate-related anxiety. These practices will be presented as accessible tools that can be used in a variety of settings, including clinical practice, schools, homes, and communities.
3. Balancing Advocacy and Mental Health Support: Health professionals will explore the dual need for caregivers and educators to engage in climate advocacy while also supporting the mental health of young people. The presentation will provide strategies to help caregivers manage their own emotional responses and avoid burnout while empowering young people to cope with their climate-related fears and stress in a healthy way.
Drawing from current research, I will introduce evidence-based contemplative nature practices, such as mindfulness, eco-therapy, and grounding techniques, which have been shown to reduce anxiety and promote well-being in young people. These practices not only help individuals manage climate-related distress but also foster a deeper connection with nature and a sense of empowerment in facing environmental crises.
The presentation will incorporate the latest research on nature-based therapeutic interventions, demonstrating their efficacy in clinical practice and how they can be adapted for use in schools, homes, and community settings. Attendees will be guided through exercises that are accessible and can be easily integrated into everyday life, making them practical tools for educators, therapists, parents, and community leaders alike. These exercises will focus on promoting emotional regulation, resilience, and a positive connection with the natural world.
Three Key Learnings:
1. Understanding the Psychological Impact of Climate Change: Health professionals will gain insights into how climate change and ecological crises contribute to increased anxiety, stress, and mental health challenges, particularly among young people. They will learn how these issues manifest in clinical settings and the unique mental health burdens faced by both children and caregivers as they navigate these environmental threats.
2. Effective Nature-Based Therapeutic Practices: Attendees will learn about evidence-based nature therapy and contemplative practices, such as mindfulness, eco-therapy, and grounding techniques, which have been shown to reduce climate-related anxiety. These practices will be presented as accessible tools that can be used in a variety of settings, including clinical practice, schools, homes, and communities.
3. Balancing Advocacy and Mental Health Support: Health professionals will explore the dual need for caregivers and educators to engage in climate advocacy while also supporting the mental health of young people. The presentation will provide strategies to help caregivers manage their own emotional responses and avoid burnout while empowering young people to cope with their climate-related fears and stress in a healthy way.
Biography
Carly is a psychologist with a particular interest in the issues that may stem from difficult life experiences. She is a Director at the Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi), Trauma Recovery Network Australia, and at Body Safety Australia. She is an Ahpra Board Approved Supervisor. She works with children, adolescents and adults and is a climate aware practitioner with Psychology for a Safe Climate. She is a passionate climate and environmental campaigner and activist.
