Climate change significantly impacts mental health through direct exposure to extreme weather events, chronic climate-related stressors and indirect social and economic disruptions. Building resilience, maintaining social connections, practicing self-care, seeking professional help and advocating for policy changes are essential coping strategies.
Impact on mental health
Climate change refers to relatively stable changes in precipitation and temperature over a period of time in a given region. Climate change has been described as a critical global challenge, especially because human activities can contribute to changes in the global climate.
Exposure to extreme weather events like hurricanes, floods and wildfires can lead to acute stress disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. For example, a study found that survivors of Hurricane Katrina experienced high rates of PTSD and mental distress. Scientists also found that individuals affected by the Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria, Australia, reported increased symptoms of anxiety and depression. The survey also included measures of fire-related PTSD, major depressive episodes, alcohol use and general psychological distress.
Climate anxiety, also called eco-anxiety, refers to distressing feelings related to climate change impacts. According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, more than two-thirds of Americans experience some form of climate anxiety.
Long-term stressors like droughts, heat waves and rising sea levels can cause ongoing anxiety and depression. Persistent heatwaves have been linked to increased emergency room visits and hospital admissions. These facilities are seeing physical impacts such as:
Heat exhaustion
Heatstroke
Increased risk of heart disease
Worsening asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Dehydration, which can lead to kidney injury, including some irreversible damage and blood pressure problems
Doctors are also treating mental health concerns and substance use, loss of sleep and slowing of brain cognition. With extended periods of extreme heat, there is a heightened risk of increased acute psychiatric and substance use symptoms among people with chronic behavioral health conditions.
Research published in medical journal “The Lancet” notes, "increasing evidence indicates that ambient outdoor temperature could affect mental health, which is especially concerning in the context of climate change."
Extreme heat is associated with increases in irritability and symptoms of depression and with an increase in suicide. It can also affect behavior, contributing to increased aggression, incidences of domestic violence and increased substance use. Research has also linked high temperatures to problems with memory, attention and reaction time. Sleep difficulties associated with extreme heat can contribute to and further exacerbate mental health symptoms.
A study in Australia found that droughts substantially increase the incidence of suicide in rural populations, particularly among male farmers and their families.
Additionally, climate change can exacerbate social and economic inequalities, leading to displacement, loss of livelihoods and food insecurity, which are significant stressors and increase the risk of long-term mental health disorders.
Coping with climate change
Climate change is a complex issue that can bring up several different emotions. The way to approach such a significant stressor is to focus on what you can control. Here are some tips:
Build resilience. Develop personal and community resilience by staying informed about climate risks and preparing for emergencies. Participate in community support groups and engage in local climate action initiatives.
Maintain social connections. Strong social networks can provide emotional support during stressful times. Stay connected with family, friends and community groups.
Practice self-care. Engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy diet and practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress levels.
Advocate for policy change. Get involved in advocacy for climate policies that protect mental health, such as those promoting sustainable development and reducing carbon emissions.
Go green. Choose food options that have less environmental impact and build more sustainable habits around personal energy use, including recycling and composting.
Remember that if you are experiencing significant distress, seek support from mental health professionals. Talking through your emotions can be helpful. Therapy and counseling can provide coping strategies and emotional support.
