This is an Exclusive Guest Blog by Ms. Richa Singh, CEO & Co-Founder, YourDost – which provides an online counseling and emotional support platform designed to foster mental wellness.
Like once Frances Beinecke correctly said, “I have long understood that climate change is not only an environmental issue – it is a humanitarian, economic, health, and justice issue as well,” we cannot agree more.
Little do we know that climate change can have a significant impact on mental health in several ways. The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has disclosed that the escalating pace of climate change is presenting an escalating menace to mental health and psychosocial welfare, encompassing a range of afflictions from emotional anguish to anxiety, depression, bereavement, and suicidal tendencies.
As we continue our journey to help people with emotional wellbeing, digging into reasons that adversely affect the mental health continues to rise high. In such events, we have come across various research papers that indicate that occupational heat stress is correlated with heightened psychological distress among the workforces. Similar other studies have found an association between increased temperatures in the workplace and greater psychological distress. We also found that there is approximately a 1% increase in the number of suicides for each 1°C temperature increase, once the temperature passes a threshold that is unique to each location. The World Health Organization (WHO) projects a surge in the number of additional fatalities, amounting to approximately 250,000 per annum, from 2030 to 2050 as a direct consequence of the widely acknowledged repercussions of climate change.
“I remember, how I would keep a half-filled bottle of water on the floor and keep on staring at it during nights just to check if an earthquake was taking place or not,” narrated Pooja, a family member of a Bhuj (2001 Gujrat earthquake) victim. How many of us are aware that in addition to the immediate effects of natural disasters, long-term climate change can exacerbate existing mental health concerns? We often talk about the disasters and extreme weather events but ignore the impact of changing climate patterns that can increase stress related to financial instability, food scarcity, and health risks.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, the air pollution and higher temperatures that come with rising greenhouse gases significantly increase the risk of neurological and psychiatric problems like strokes and dementia. One of the most noticeable mental health impacts of climate change is the increase in anxiety and depression.
Climate change is causing the loss of biodiversity, ecosystems, and homes. The destruction of natural habitats and the extinction of species have profound psychological impacts on individuals who appreciate the beauty and interconnectedness of the natural world. In the 2017 Lancet Countdown on Climate Change and Health, authors state: “The human symptoms of climate change are unequivocal and potentially irreversible affecting the health of populations around the world today” People who experience or witness these traumatic events can develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), leading to long-term psychological distress. The rebuilding process and the fear of future disasters can contribute to ongoing mental health issues.
It is sine chilling to even to that there have been nearly 60000 suicide cases in India over the last 30 years. It is important for us to note that vulnerable populations, such as low-income communities, the elderly, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions, are often disproportionately affected by climate change. Therefore, we must understand that addressing the mental health impacts of climate change requires a comprehensive approach that includes supporting mental health services and providing resources to those most at risk.
Climate change is not only an environmental crisis but also a mental health crisis. The anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief caused by climate change are increasingly affecting individuals and communities around the world. It is crucial to raise awareness about the mental health implications of climate change and to invest in support systems that can help individuals cope with these challenges. By prioritizing mental health alongside environmental action, we can work towards a more sustainable and resilient future for all.
Acknowledging the mental health due to impacts of climate change is the first step towards addressing them. Developing resilience and coping strategies can help individuals and communities navigate the challenges ahead. Promoting inclusive and supportive communities, fostering connections with nature, and advocating for effective climate change policies are essential steps in protecting mental health.
