Eco-anxiety and Suicide
This study wants to find out if there's a connection between how much a teenager worries about climate change, often called 'eco-anxiety,' and their risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. Suicide is a serious concern for young people aged 15-24, and understanding all the factors that contribute to it is vital. Researchers believe that eco-anxiety could be an important, yet overlooked, factor. They will use special questionnaires to measure eco-anxiety and suicide risk in teenagers aged 12-16 who are in hospital for mental health support. The goal is to better understand these risks so that doctors and families can spot warning signs earlier and provide better help to young people struggling with these difficult feelings.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is looking into a really important issue: whether worrying about climate change, often called eco-anxiety, might be linked to a young person feeling suicidal. We know that suicide is a serious problem, especially for teenagers and young adults. In fact, it's one of the main causes of death for people aged 15-24. For a long time, doctors have tried to figure out why some young people feel this way, so they can offer better help and support.
Anxiety, or feeling very worried, is a big part of mental health, and this study focuses on a specific kind of worry: eco-anxiety. This isn't just everyday stress; it's deep concern about climate change and its potential effects on the world. Researchers think this kind of anxiety might be particularly hard for young people because they're looking ahead to their future. While we know that anxiety can affect mental well-being, no one has really studied whether eco-anxiety itself plays a role in increasing suicide risk in teenagers.
So, this study aims to fill that gap. They will ask teenagers some questions to measure how much eco-anxiety they feel and also to understand their suicide risk. By seeing if there's a connection between these two things, doctors and mental health professionals can get a clearer picture of what might make some young people more vulnerable. This understanding could lead to better ways to identify and support teenagers who are struggling, and ultimately help prevent suicide.
Key takeaways
- The study explores the link between worry about climate change (eco-anxiety) and suicide risk in teenagers.
- It aims to help doctors better understand why some young people feel suicidal.
- Participation involves answering questionnaires about your feelings and worries.
- Your regular medical care will not be affected by joining the study.
- The study is for young people aged 12-16 who are currently in a specific hospital department.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, young people need to be between 12 and 16 years old. They must also currently be staying in the child and adolescent mental health department at Hopital Femme Mère Enfant in France.
There are certain reasons why a young person might not be able to join. For example, if they don't speak French, or if they have difficulty reading or writing, they won't be able to take part. Also, if they have a condition that makes it hard to understand explanations or read the questionnaires, they won't be included.
Finally, if the young person or their parents don't want them to participate, or if the child is not covered by the French social security system and is under legal protection, they won't be able to join the study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 12 and 16 years old?
- Are you currently admitted to the child and adolescent mental health department at Hopital Femme Mère Enfant?
- Do you speak and understand French?
- Can you read and write clearly?
- Do you feel comfortable answering questions about your feelings and worries?
What does participation involve?
The study involves answering some questionnaires. You won't be given any new medicines or treatments as part of this research. The questionnaires will help the researchers understand your feelings about climate change and assess any potential suicide risk. The total time for participation is not specified but usually involves one or two sessions for completing the questionnaires. You won't have to change your regular treatment or care in any way.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Hôpital Femme Mère EnfantVerified postcodeBron, France· Recruiting
Common questions
What is eco-anxiety?
Eco-anxiety is a feeling of deep worry or distress about climate change and its potential consequences for the planet and people.
Will taking part in this study change my medical treatment?
No, taking part in this study will not change any of your current medical treatments or care. It's purely for research purposes.
Who can see my answers to the questionnaires?
Your answers will be kept private and confidential. Only the research team will have access to them, and your individual answers will not be shared with others.
Do I have to answer all the questions?
You can choose which questions you feel comfortable answering. You don't have to answer anything you don't want to.
What happens with the study results?
The results will help doctors and researchers better understand the link between eco-anxiety and suicide risk in young people, which could lead to better support and prevention strategies for teenagers in the future.
How to find out more
Christophe Gauld, Dr
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.