Beyond The Physical: The Invisible Impact Of Climate Change On Mental Health

Everyone is aware that climate change is the most difficult global challenge of our time. The Earth's climate is changing at an unprecedented rate, with increasing temperatures, rising sea levels, and more frequent extreme weather events. Now, that people and the government can first-handedly see the shift and changes happening around us, they are now paying notice.

But what are we doing about it still? From climate activists to companies coming up with ideas for a sustainable tomorrow, some people are trying. But until each and every being realises how important it is to take action now, changes are happening rapidly.

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Does climate change affect our mental health?

Other than depleting resources for us and future generations, there are several physical damages caused by climate change. But did you know, it is also affecting our mental health? Raj Mariwala, Director, Mariwala Health Initiative says, "Across the spectrum of climate change - whether it is extreme weather events i.e. disasters or changing weather patterns - such as rising temperature - there is a range of mental health consequences. This can range from the occurrence of post-traumatic stress disorder experienced for 3 to 5 years by those in communities affected and rescue workers to night-time heat leading to poorer sleep and deteriorating mental health."

This is how it impacts our mental health:

Due to natural disasters

Earthquakes around the world have shocked the world. The fact that no place is safe from the impact of continuously occurring natural disasters leaves many with rising fear. These events can cause trauma, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in people who experience or witness them.

Degrading the environment

If you think that the impact on climate such as loss of biodiversity, deforestation, and air and water pollution isn't affecting us now, you may be wrong. Exposure to these environmental stressors can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems.

Changing natural courses

Events caused due to climate change such as sea-level rise, land degradation, and desertification are forcing people to leave their homes and communities. This displacement can lead to feelings of loss, grief, and anxiety, and can result in mental health problems such as depression, PTSD, and substance abuse.

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Economic impacts

Climate change can also affect economic stability, with rising food, housing, and other essentials costs and this has already started happening. This economic stress can contribute to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and stress.

Rising heat

We all know that climate change is the cause of the rising temperatures in all parts of the world. As per Mariwala, "While hot days have shown links with self-harm many workers experience psychological distress, confusion and irritability due occupational heat stress. Additionally, persons living with mental health conditions may be more vulnerable to the effects of heatwaves."

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What can be done to safeguard mental health due to climate change?

Several things can be done to help those most vulnerable due to the impact of climate change:

Raising more awareness

At a time like this, it is a given. Educate people about the mental health impacts of climate change. This can help reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and increase access to support and resources. Education and awareness can be achieved through public campaigns, media outreach, and community-based educational programs.

Better access to future problems

Mriwala adds," Whether it is well-ventilated and cooler workplaces, to protective garments, to access to food, shelter and healthcare when facing climate extremes. The converse is also true - access to nature can have a beneficial health impact - be it physical or mental - one study showed that people living in areas with 30 per cent or more tree canopy reported better general health and reduced psychological distress. This research has informed the City of Sydney¡¯s $377 million strategy to reach 40 per cent green cover by 2050. This is increasingly being called 'nature prescription'."

Build better policies

Develop programs and resources that help individuals and communities build resilience to climate-related stressors. "Emergency response, disaster relief and other development areas need to have linkages and network-building of tangible avenues toward employment, housing, and food security for affected and uprooted communities," adds Mariwala.

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Address environmental stressors

Addressing the underlying environmental stressors that contribute to mental health issues is critical. This can include measures such as reducing air and water pollution, protecting natural habitats, and promoting sustainable practices. These efforts can help to reduce the overall impact of climate change and provide a healthier environment for all.

Promote adaptation

Promoting adaptation to the changing climate can help to reduce the overall impact on mental health. This can include measures such as land-use planning, relocation, and other adaptation strategies. By promoting adaptation, individuals and communities can better prepare for the impacts of climate change and reduce the risk of mental health issues.

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Why is important to safeguard mental health due to climate change?

Mental health as we all know is extremely important in today's world. Everything from technology to daily stressors can hamper one's mental health. So, when it comes to climate change, this is why safeguarding mental health is important:

Public health reasons

Mental health can become a public health problem in no time since it is on the rise. By safeguarding mental health due to climate change, we can help prevent mental health issues from becoming a public health crisis. This can reduce the burden on healthcare systems and improve overall health outcomes.

Social and environmental justice reasons

Climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, such as low-income communities and communities of color. Safeguarding mental health due to climate change is an essential step towards achieving social and environmental justice by ensuring that those who are most affected by climate change receive the support they need.

Economic reasons

Mental health issues related to climate change can also have significant economic impacts. This can include increased healthcare costs, lost productivity, and decreased economic growth. By safeguarding mental health, we can reduce the economic burden of mental health issues related to climate change.

By addressing the mental health impacts of climate change, we can create a more sustainable and just future for all.