UK Health Officials Suggest Yoga and Community Groups to Address Climate Anxiety Among Youth

LONDON, England — November 21, 2025 — British health authorities have proposed yoga sessions and community gatherings known as “climate cafés” as part of a strategy to help young people cope with increasing levels of climate-related anxiety, according to a recent report from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

The report, which examines the psychological impact of climate change on youth, identifies eco-anxiety as a growing concern among British children and adolescents. It recommends a variety of approaches aimed at promoting mental well-being, including mindfulness practices such as yoga and the establishment of supportive social spaces where individuals can discuss environmental issues in a constructive manner.

Officials said these measures are intended to provide coping mechanisms for young people who feel overwhelmed by the scale and urgency of climate change. The report emphasizes the importance of community engagement and mental health support to mitigate the emotional toll of environmental worries.

However, the report has faced criticism from some quarters. Jason Isaac, a commentator known for his skeptical views on climate discourse, dismissed eco-anxiety as a byproduct of what he described as “climate propaganda.” Isaac argued that framing environmental concerns as a mental health issue risks amplifying fear rather than fostering practical solutions.

Despite the debate, UKHSA officials maintain that acknowledging eco-anxiety is crucial for developing effective public health responses. They point to studies showing that climate change can have significant psychological effects, particularly on younger generations who are expected to inherit the long-term consequences.

The concept of “climate cafés” involves creating informal community spaces where individuals can share experiences, discuss environmental topics, and build resilience together. These gatherings are designed to reduce feelings of isolation and helplessness by fostering a sense of collective action and support.

Yoga and mindfulness practices are proposed as tools to help young people manage stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and emotional regulation. These approaches are part of a broader mental health strategy that recognizes the complex interplay between environmental concerns and psychological well-being.

The UKHSA report reflects a growing awareness among public health officials of the need to address the mental health dimensions of climate change. As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the psychological impact on vulnerable populations, especially youth, is gaining increased attention.

Critics like Isaac caution against pathologizing environmental awareness, suggesting that it may undermine efforts to engage the public in meaningful climate action. Supporters argue that providing mental health resources is essential to empower young people to participate constructively in addressing environmental challenges.

The report does not propose mandatory programs but rather encourages voluntary participation in activities that can help alleviate stress related to climate concerns. Officials also highlight the importance of accurate information and education to counter misinformation that can exacerbate anxiety.

As the UK continues to confront the realities of climate change, the dialogue around eco-anxiety underscores the intersection of environmental policy and public health. The recommendations put forward by UKHSA aim to equip young people with tools to navigate the emotional landscape shaped by environmental uncertainty and change.