Jenn Follstad Shah featured on Talking Climate podcast

In the face of rapid changes in our natural environment and global climate, many people are experiencing heavy feelings of concern, sometimes referred to as “eco-anxiety” or “climate grief.” Dr. Jenn Follstad Shah and Dr. Andrea Brunelle, both professors in the School of Environment, Society & Sustainability, conducted a year-long study of climate grief amongst undergraduate students across the University of Utah. The study examined how students are experiencing symptoms of eco-anxiety, and to understand how students are effectively coping with it. As part of the study, ESS faculty hosted Good Grief Circles, a peer-support group for students struggling with the psychological impact of climate change. Other co-PIs on the project, including U faculty Adrienne Cachelin, Monika Lohani, Sara Yeo, and Lynne Zummo. 

In September 2024, Dr. Shah and Dr. Brunelle presented their results at our Weekly Environment & Society Talks (WEST). They shared findings from the study and suggested ways our academic community could better support student mental health with respect to climate uncertainties. In November 2024, Dr. Shah was featured on the Talking Climate podcast, hosted by The Wilkes Center for Climate Science & Policy.

Listen to the podcast episode, titled “Climate Anxiety Prevalence at the U.”