Children express climate concerns amid rising worries in Denmark

Many people struggle to fall asleep due to racing thoughts about various concerns, particularly children who worry about the climate crisis. A recent survey found that 27% of children aged 9 to 14 express concerns about climate change at least once a week. Ten-year-old Jakob Sadolin Hansen shared that he worries about the potential for severe flooding in the future, while 11-year-old Sally Højstrup Lindorff expressed fears about climate-induced floods affecting homes, referencing recent flooding events in Denmark.

Ida Hilario Jønsson, a child specialist, noted that while children are not overwhelmed with concerns, many reach out to express their worries about climate change. Similarly, psychologist Charlotte Diamant highlighted that even if children don’t explicitly voice their climate concerns, they often carry these anxieties which can manifest physically through symptoms like nausea or headaches.

A significant number of children calling in are preoccupied with thoughts about their future and worry that there is not enough time left to address climate issues. Experts suggest that parents should validate children’s feelings, encourage them to share their worries, and involve them in small actions that can help the environment, such as recycling or cleaning up nature.

Despite numerous efforts, many children remain skeptical about politicians’ commitment to effective climate action, with only 24% expressing trust in their leaders. Danish Climate Minister Lars Aagaard acknowledges these concerns and emphasizes the need for collective global action to address the climate crisis, admitting that current efforts fall short of what is necessary.