Eco-anxiety rises in France amid extreme weather

Eco-anxiety is rising in France as extreme weather events, including heatwaves and wildfires, trigger significant psychological distress among the population. According to data from the French Agency for Ecological Transition (ADEME), approximately 16.6 million French citizens exhibit symptoms of environment-related psychological distress.

The phenomenon is particularly prevalent among the 25-34 age demographic, who face difficulties projecting themselves into a future shaped by global warming, often compounded by concerns regarding housing and employment. The Observatory of Eco-anxiety (OBESCA) reports that the number of individuals suffering from this condition has increased by 2.6 million in recent months, following intense periods of heat and devastating fires in regions such as Gironde.

Psychotherapists note that the severity of eco-anxiety can range from general worry to serious mental health risks, including potential psychopathology. In response to this growing trend, public authorities launched an information campaign in late July titled ‘How to manage eco-anxiety?’ to provide guidance on coping with these environmental stressors.