Addressing Mental Health Impacts of Climate Change

– Teresa Madaleno:

The health impacts of climate change are well publicized. Climate extremes have been linked to the spread of diseases, the development of respiratory illnesses, as well as injuries, mostly due to severe weather conditions. However, the impact of climate change on mental health is also significant.

Studies indicate that several factors related to climate can impact emotional well-being, including the consequences of weather-related disasters. When people are exposed to life-threatening situations, such as flooding or fires, it can increase the risk of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Think about the extent of the wildfires in the summer of 2023 and it’s easy to understand how significant stress can take over entire communities. Being forced to move away from your home due to climate disasters can be mentally challenging. Additionally, people can lose their jobs following extreme weather events. Job loss creates a host of psychological consequences, such as feelings of inadequacy when you suddenly struggle to feed and house your family. Both researchers and healthcare professionals have discovered an association between drought and suicide attempts by farmers.

The most comprehensive study on climate anxiety was unveiled in 2021. It showed that nearly half of the global youth population surveyed said climate distress is impacting their daily lives and functioning.
Medical journals often refer to deteriorating mental health due to climate as a relatively “new phenomenon”, which means that medical professionals are still in the process of developing ways to treat sufferers.

Currently, healthcare providers suggest coping methods to deal with climate change anxiety, including those listed here.

• Advocacy groups – Feeling helpless is part of the problem for those who suffer from climate anxiety, but spending time with like-minded people who are part of an advocacy group fighting for the improvement of environmental conditions, can help give people a sense of control, even if it is only in a small way.

• Minimize footprint – Do everything you can to lower your impact on the environment. When people lead by example and then see family and friends following suit, it can give them hope.

• Spend time outside – Enjoying nature, planting flowers, or taking hikes are activities that are known to reinforce the positive aspects of an environment.

• Mental health help – Seek out a mental health professional that is qualified to assist you. Don’t be afraid to talk with your general practitioner about options for dealing with your anxiety and/or depression.

It’s true that we can’t bury our heads in the sand, but sometimes it makes sense to take a break from reading negative environmental news. When people feel the pressure to be informed, they should remind themselves that all the climate stories and social posts will still be there when they are ready to return to their normal routine.