Research Mission at EDUCONS University, Novi Sad, within COST Action CA23113 – CliMent
In October 2026, I completed a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) within COST Action CA23113 – Climate Change Impacts on Mental Health in Europe (CliMent), hosted by Prof. Dr. Aleksandra Jerkov at EDUCONS University in Novi Sad, Serbia. The research mission, entitled “Integrating Climate Change Education into EU Youth Policy Frameworks through a Mental Health-Focused Approach,” explored the intersection of climate change education, European youth policy, and mental health, with particular attention to eco-anxiety, climate-related distress, psychological resilience, and young people’s psychosocial well-being.
Research Focus and Activities
The mission examined how existing EU policy frameworks address climate-related challenges and their psychological consequences, particularly those concerning young people, education, and climate change. A central aspect of the research was identifying gaps between climate change education and mental health support systems, as well as exploring opportunities to integrate psychological well-being into educational and youth policy approaches. The research activities included reviewing relevant European policy frameworks and scientific literature, examining the relationship between climate education and mental health, and developing a conceptual approach to incorporating mental health considerations into climate change education policies.
Particular attention was given to several interconnected dimensions:
- Recognition of eco-anxiety and climate-related psychological distress among young people.
- Psychological resilience, coping strategies and psychosocial well-being.
- Youth empowerment and meaningful participation in climate education.
- Risk communication and institutional support mechanisms.
- Stronger links between education systems, mental health services and climate policy.
An important objective was to translate scientific insights into policy-relevant recommendations for European and national policymakers, educational institutions and stakeholders working with young people.
Contribution to COST Action CliMent
The mission directly supported the objectives of COST Action CA23113 – CliMent, particularly the interdisciplinary work of Working Group 1 (Mental Health Impacts) and Working Group 2 (Adaptive Strategies and Interventions). By connecting climate change education with youth policy and mental health research, the mission contributed to the Action’s broader efforts to strengthen interdisciplinary cooperation, advance evidence-based approaches and improve understanding of climate-related mental health challenges across Europe. The research also provides a conceptual foundation for further policy-oriented outputs, scientific publications and dissemination activities within the CliMent network.
Acknowledgements and Future Cooperation
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Prof. Dr. Aleksandra Jerkov for hosting this research mission, providing academic guidance and facilitating valuable discussions and knowledge exchange throughout the visit. My appreciation also goes to EDUCONS University, Novi Sad, and its academic community for their hospitality, support, and for providing a stimulating environment for research and international academic cooperation. I am equally grateful to the CliMent COST network for supporting this research mission and creating opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange across Europe. I look forward to further developing the research outcomes and contributing to joint publications, policy recommendations and future collaborative activities within the network.
Join the CliMent Network
Researchers, academics, mental health professionals, educators, policymakers and other interested stakeholders are welcome to join the CliMent COST – Climate Change & Mental Health network. If you are interested in becoming part of this interdisciplinary European community, you are invited to submit an application outlining your motivation, research interests and vision for contributing to the network. Together, we can strengthen the connection between climate science, mental health, education and policy, and contribute to a more resilient and climate-aware society.
Keywords: COST Action, CliMent, Climate Change Education, Mental Health, Eco-Anxiety, Youth Policy, Psychological Resilience, European Research Cooperation.