The global spotlight on climate change has resulted in a relatively new phenomenon.

Dr. Janine Hubbard with the Association of Psychology in Newfoundland and Labrador says some young people are starting to present with symptoms that can best be described as “eco-anxiety.”

She says there are an increasing number of anxiety and depression issues coming to the forefront from young people afraid of immediate events like floods and fires that they see on the news, as well as the long-term effects of climate change they are hearing about.

Dr. Janine Hubbard applauds the passion and motivation being shown by young people on an important issue, but she does offer some advice, particularly for younger people who might have trouble processing the public discourse.

She says children should not have to feel responsible for the change that is needed, but there are small manageable changes that children and families can make like being in charge of reminding family members to bring their reusable bags to the grocery store, or planting a garden of herbs for the winter.