Eco-Anxiety: Our Mental Health in an Age of Climate Change
Climate change — a formidable reality of our time — has consistently been recognised for its environmental and economic implications. But what about its psychological impact? Our mental health, an often-neglected casualty of our changing climate, warrants an earnest conversation.
Climate change refers to significant, long-term changes in the Earth’s weather patterns and average temperatures. Meanwhile, mental health is a state of well-being where individuals can realise their abilities, cope with life stresses, work productively, and contribute to their communities. At first glance, these may appear unrelated. Yet, they are intrinsically linked.
Climate change is impacting mental health significantly, especially among younger populations. A recent study found that 3% of American adults exhibit potentially severe levels of climate change-related anxiety or depression, with a higher prevalence among Hispanic/Latino adults and younger generations. Moreover, 7% of American adults are experiencing at least mild levels of CCPD, with 8% showing interest in discussing their feelings about global warming with a therapist.
Climate-induced natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and floods can have immediate and acute effects on mental health. The trauma and distress from these life-threatening events can trigger acute mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. For instance, a study published in the journal “Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness” found the prevalence of PTSD and depression to be up to 30% and 40%, respectively, in disaster-affected populations.
Not just in the U.S., a 2022 study titled ‘The Impact of Climate Change on Mental Health in Bangladesh’ identified a disturbing trend in a Global South country. “We have now established a high-water mark that, alas, could soon be eclipsed regarding how climate can impact mental health in a highly vulnerable country. This should serve as a warning for other nations,” stated the study’s lead author, Syed Shabab Wahid, DrPH, MPH.
Moreover, displacement following these disasters can further exacerbate mental health issues. The sudden loss of home, community, and livelihood significantly contributes to stress and anxiety, establishing a profound sense of loss and instability.
Climate change is not only about catastrophic disasters. Subtle, gradual environmental changes — the increasing average temperatures, rising sea levels, and shifting agriculture patterns — also affect mental health. These alterations breed uncertainty and stress, potentially leading to chronic mental health issues.
Perhaps more insidious is “eco-anxiety.” This anxiety about the environmental future can impact mental health significantly, promoting feelings of helplessness, frustration, and fear. A 2020 American Psychiatric Association (APA) poll found that two-thirds of Americans are “somewhat” or “extremely” anxious about climate change’s impact on their mental health.
Certain groups, including children, the elderly, marginalised communities, and individuals with pre-existing mental conditions, bear a disproportionate brunt of climate change’s mental health effects. Children in developmental stages are particularly sensitive to traumatic events and disruptions. Older individuals with limited physical and financial resources may struggle to adapt to environmental changes and disasters. Similarly, marginalised communities, already grappling with systemic inequalities, are more likely to face severe consequences.
Recognising the mental health implications of climate change necessitates recalibrating public health strategies. Mental health practitioners, policymakers, and public health institutions must integrate climate resilience into their mental health interventions.
Successful interventions, such as community-based participatory approaches, leverage local knowledge and participation to build resilience against climate-related stressors. Moreover, policy decisions should consider climate-related mental health effects. For example, providing mental health support in disaster response strategies or investing in climate-resilient infrastructure could mitigate some adverse effects.
How we communicate climate change is another critical facet of this issue. While it’s vital to convey the urgency of climate change, fear-based messaging can lead to overwhelming anxiety and stress. In contrast, promoting actionable solutions and fostering resilience can empower individuals and communities, reducing feelings of helplessness and promoting action.
As we navigate the complex challenges of climate change, it’s essential to prioritise an integrated approach intertwining climate change mitigation, adaptation, and mental health strategies. Only then can we address these intertwined crises effectively?
Climate change is more than an environmental issue — it is a human one that affects us all. It’s high time we paid attention to its impact on our mental health. Let’s ensure that in our quest to combat climate change, we don’t overlook the well-being of the most vital component of our planet — the human mind.
On the COP28 Radar Screen
COP Health Day is December 3, 2023, during the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (#COP28) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This is the first time COP will have a dedicated day to health and climate change, and it will be a major opportunity to discuss climate change’s mental health impacts and develop strategies to address them.
The day will feature various events, including panel discussions, workshops, and side events. The objective is to raise awareness about climate change’s health impacts and discuss potential responses to these effects. FINN Partners has a dedicated team preparing for #COP28, intended for clients who have a presence or desire to establish one at the event.
