Study of Climate Anxiety and Suicide Risk in Young People Ages 16 to 24 Receiving Psychiatric Care in France

What this Trial Is About

This research investigates the link between anxiety caused by climate change, known as eco-anxiety, and the risk of suicide among young people aged 16 to 24 years. Young generations face growing environmental challenges that can lead to feelings of fear, sadness, and helplessness about the planets future. The study focuses on individuals receiving psychiatric care to better understand how eco-anxiety relates to suicidal thoughts and general anxiety. Participants in this observational study complete three questionnaires the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale C-SSRS to assess suicidal thoughts and behaviors, the Climate Change Anxiety Scale CCAS-FR to measure anxiety related to climate change, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory STAI-Y to evaluate general anxiety levels. Sociodemographic information including age, gender, education, living conditions, and psychiatric history is also collected. The study includes 108 young people recruited from emergency, inpatient, and outpatient psychiatric settings. During their involvement, participants complete the assessments online or as clinician-administered interviews to provide data on their mental health and eco-anxiety. Researchers analyze these results to explore the relationship between climate anxiety and suicide risk, considering general anxiety and sociodemographic factors like gender. The study aims to support improved mental health policies and prevention strategies related to environmental stressors. Participation spans a single cross-sectional assessment.

Climate Anxiety in a Young Population at Risk of Suicide