Watts is not alone in experiencing climate anxiety. A 2022 study from the University of Bath revealed that approximately 4.6% of the UK population suffers from this psychological distress, which is acknowledged by the NHS and various professional bodies. Research published in 2025 indicates that young people and women are among those most affected.
Psychologists Dr. Caroline Hickman from the University of Bath and Dr. Emma Laurence from the University of Oxford highlight that ‘anticipatory anxiety,’ particularly in relation to heatwaves, is increasingly prevalent.
“Once someone encounters a traumatic event, such as a flood or heatwave, they begin to anticipate the next one,” states Hickman, who offers therapy for individuals grappling with climate anxiety, in an interview with the BBC.
In the UK, she noted, “Now it’s on repeat, repeat, repeat” regarding heatwaves. “This creates a feeling of insecurity, leading to a belief that ‘I can’t be safe in this world and I can’t trust the world,'” she further explained.
During June’s heatwave, Hickman reported alarming statements from some individuals: “Some express suicidal thoughts, others are considering terminating pregnancies, and some want to sell their homes to relocate to cooler climates.”
Watts shared that her video on the subject “resonated with many,” including therapists who contributed comments on coping strategies, expressing her desire to assist others in managing climate anxiety.
“It’s a matter of two paths. You can fall into fatalism, thinking, ‘What’s the point?'” she explained.
“Alternatively, you can take action. I’ve been signing petitions throughout the heatwave, organizing community climate events, and even running a free swap shop for children’s clothing. During the last heatwave, I committed to a vegetarian lifestyle, so at least I can tell my kids I made an effort.”
Source: www.bbc.co.uk