The Impact of the Climate Crisis on Mental Health: A Systematic Literature Review

Background: Climate change, marked by extreme events such as droughts and floods, profoundly affects mental health, leading to climate anxiety, characterized by fear and worry about its effects, which can also adversely impact sustainability. Objective: To explore the socioeconomic and psychological factors influencing the levels of climate anxiety measured by the Climate Change Anxiety Scale (CCAS). Methodology: Systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines, analyzing studies from various regions, focusing on empirical data using CCAS and other complementary instruments. Results: Young individuals and those with greater exposure to climate change report higher levels of anxiety, often associated with symptoms of depression and stress. Although anxiety can drive pro-environmental and sustainable behaviors, it can also lead to ecoparalysis in some individuals. Conclusions: The CCAS is an effective tool to measure climate anxiety and has the potential to identify vulnerable groups facing the climate crisis. This study highlights the importance of specific interventions to address the psychological impacts of climate change, and promote public policies focusing on sustainability issues.