Pakistan’s escalating climate crises, including the devastating floods of 2022 and severe heatwaves in 2024, have had a profound impact on its population. While the physical and economic effects are widely recognized, the mental health consequences, particularly for youth, are less documented but increasingly severe.
The recent flash floods in Gwadar and the extreme heatwave have intensified feelings of climate anxiety, or “eco-anxiety,” among Pakistanis. This term describes the distress and uncertainty about the future caused by ongoing environmental disasters. Despite the growing concern, eco-anxiety in developing countries like Pakistan is not as thoroughly studied as in more developed nations.
To explore this issue, we spoke with residents of low-cost, climate-resilient houses in Sohbatpur, Balochistan, a region significantly impacted by climate change. These houses are part of a project involving Balochistan Youth Action Committee, British Asian Trust, Deutsche Bank, and HANDS Pakistan. Our discussions highlighted three major themes concerning eco-anxiety in this context:
Disproportionate Impact on Women and Youth
Climate change disproportionately affects women and young people. Women face increased isolation and anxiety due to disrupted social networks and heightened risks of early marriage and violence during climate crises. Youth, on the other hand, experience eco-anxiety related to interrupted education and uncertain job prospects. The lack of school infrastructure due to floods exacerbates their academic and future career concerns.
Stigma Surrounding Mental Health
Mental health remains heavily stigmatized in Pakistan, with climate-induced mental health struggles often compounded by cultural taboos. Young people recognize the importance of mental health support but face barriers due to societal norms. Many older individuals are unfamiliar with mental health concepts, reflecting a broader challenge in accessing culturally sensitive mental health resources.
Generational Divide on Climate Action
There is a notable generational gap in perspectives on climate action. Younger Pakistanis are eager to engage in sustainable solutions, while older generations often view climate change as beyond human control, described as “God’s will.” Bridging this divide through dialogue and collaborative efforts, such as “climate cafes,” could facilitate better understanding and collective action.
The experiences of Sohbatpur’s residents underscore the urgent need to address eco-anxiety in developing regions. Strategies that include culturally sensitive mental health support and foster intergenerational dialogue will be crucial in mitigating the mental health impacts of climate change and supporting affected communities.
