In August 2023, NEEF hosted a Health & Nature webinar with the USDA Forest Service, with special guest speakers including Deputy U.S. Surgeon General, Rear Admiral (RADM) Denise Hinton. This webinar examined the mental health impacts of climate change and the role of healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders in addressing climate emotions with youth populations. Conversations explored the nuance of climate change-related trauma experienced by children and adolescents and the negative mental health effects. Lastly, strategies will be shared on how to build mental resilience through education and structured activities.
Viewers will:
Understand: Identify the mental health impacts of climate change-related weather events and examine how climate change affects youth, including the nuanced aspects of their shared lived experiences.
Connect: Explore effective strategies for healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders to engage in conversations about climate emotions with children and adolescents.
Act: Share educational resources for building mental resilience.
All are welcome to attend this webinar, but the content will be especially useful for pediatric healthcare providers, school nurses, community health workers, interpretation and volunteer coordinators, public lands professionals responsible for outdoor activities, conservation educators, and community-based organizations.
