CONTACT: Sasha Tenenbaum
Senior Manager, Media and Public Engagement
stenenbaum@momscleanairforce.org
(917) 887- 0146
WHAT: Media are invited to watch Moms Clean Air Force’s National Mental Health Awareness Month-themed panel: “Are You Worried About The Climate Crisis?,” which is part of our national series of panels focused on Clean Air, Climate, Health Equity–And Inequity. Climate change and other environmental crises are increasingly affecting families’ mental health. Many parents experience a sense of dread with each frightening new climate headline or gnawing anxiety when learning about an(other) oncoming extreme weather event, and a 2021 study of young people around the world found that 84% were at least moderately worried about climate change, with 59% reporting very or extremely high levels of worry. In this program, children, parents, and grandparents ask climate and health experts their questions about climate change and mental health.
WHO: The program will be moderated by Moms Clean Air Force’s National Manager for Health Equity, Almeta Cooper and features:
- Venise Curry, MD, who has harnessed her unique background as a medical doctor and trained psychiatrist to address the intersecting needs of underserved populations in the western US. The intersections among medicine, environmental justice, and social justice are at the core of her advocacy efforts.
- Lorena Saavedra Smith, a Holistic Eco-Somatic Therapist, Mindfulness Guide, and leading expert in stress management, spirituality, embodiment awareness, and reconnecting with nature. Born and raised in Perú, she uses storytelling and writing to advocate for inclusive multicultural mental health.
- Liz Hurtado, a national field manager for Moms Clean Air Force and co- lead of Moms’ EcoMadres program focused on Latino communities. Liz’s work is at the intersection of environmental justice and health equity.
WHEN/WHERE: The panel aired on Tuesday, May 23 and is now available to watch on-demand.
RESOURCES:
- Fact Sheet: “Climate Change and Mental Health”
- Issue Page: “Climate and Mental Health”
- Blog Post: “Why Youth Voices Belong in Climate Policy. Here’s How to Help”
- Blog Post: “Coping With Climate Emotions This Mental Health Awareness Month”