Green Minds for a Green Planet: NLP-Based Approaches to Adolescent Mental Health and Environmental Engagement
Ullagaddi, Rajeshwari1, C, Shwetha J2 and Asokan, Neethu3
1,2&3Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, Kalaburagi, Karnataka
Abstract
Adolescence is a critical developmental stage marked by profound cognitive, emotional, and behavioral transformations. Globally, mental health concerns among adolescents are escalating due to academic, social, and environmental pressures. This review examines how Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), a behavioral and cognitive intervention, can promote both adolescent mental health and environmental consciousness. The potential of techniques like anchoring, reframing, and future pacing to improve emotional regulation, self-efficacy, and pro-environmental motivation is investigated. For instance, anchoring happy emotional states to environmentally friendly activities, reframing environmental obstacles as leadership chances, and envisioning a sustainable future via future pacing can enable young people to match personal development with environmental stewardship. By promoting mental clarity and good behavioral modeling, NLP helps to be a key instrument in both psychological development and environmental responsibility by incorporating cognitive-behavioral approaches with environmental education. By fostering mental clarity and strong behavioral modeling, NLP emerges as a potential tool for environmental stewardship and psychological growth. Integrating psychological, educational, and ecological viewpoints, this approach promotes a new framework for developing ‘green minds,’ or adolescents with mental resiliency and environmental awareness prepared to flourish in and actively help to create a sustainable future.
Keywords: Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Adolescent Mental Health, Environmental Engagement, Green Minds, Psychological Resilience, and Sustainable Development.
Impact Statement
This research explores the transformative potential of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) as an innovative, non-invasive approach to address two pressing challenges—adolescent mental health and environmental disengagement. By integrating NLP-based interventions into educational settings, the study demonstrates measurable improvements in emotional regulation, self-awareness, and eco-conscious behavior among adolescents. The approach empowers young minds with cognitive tools that enhance motivation, reduce anxiety, and foster pro-environmental attitudes. Importantly, the study provides a replicable model for holistic education that aligns with national mental health frameworks and sustainability goals. Its interdisciplinary nature contributes significantly to psychology, education, and environmental sciences, offering policymakers, educators, and mental health practitioners a low-cost, scalable strategy to nurture resilient and environmentally responsible youth. In an era marked by rising eco-anxiety and psychological stress, this research underscores the urgency and feasibility of cultivating “green minds” for a sustainable and mentally healthy future.
About Author
Dr. Rajeshwari Ullagaddi is a distinguished academician and researcher in the field of Life Sciences, currently serving at Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, Karnataka. A gold medalist and UGC-NET fellow, she has demonstrated exceptional commitment to teaching, research, and public health advocacy. Her areas of specialization include public health, hygiene, functional foods, and holistic healing modalities such as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and neurowellness. With over 40 publications to her credit and an impressive H-index of 12, Dr. Ullagaddi’s work bridges scientific research and community well-being. She has been honored with several prestigious accolades, including the Youth Empowerment Award 2025, Best Teacher Award, Chanakya Award, and the Eminent Scientist Award. Her scholarly contributions and leadership reflect a profound dedication to empowering youth and fostering sustainable, health-centered solutions for societal development. She continues to inspire through her academic rigor and compassionate community engagement.
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