Climate Change & Mental Health: Anxiety, Trauma, and Building Resilience
Climate change is a global crisis that affects not only the environment but also our mental health. The increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, rising temperatures, and extreme weather events significantly impact our emotional and psychological well-being. The CNA (Center for Naval Analyses) Military Advisory Board, led by Sherri Goodman (1), coined the term "threat multiplier" in 2007. Climate change heightens existing mental health issues and creates new ones.
From the displacement of entire communities to extreme weather events that disrupt our daily lives, climate change has taken a toll on our mental well-being. It can cause fear and uncertainty about the future, leading to heightened stress levels and a sense of helplessness. With this in mind, it’s important to acknowledge the effects of climate change on our mental health and take steps to mitigate them as much as possible. In this article, we will explore how climate change affects our mental health, consider diverse perspectives and what are the approaches to cope with the aftermath.
What is Climate Change?
Climate change refers to the long-term shifts of global weather patterns and average temperatures, primarily caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. These activities release large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which trap heat and cause the Earth's temperature to rise. Climate change is a global issue that requires collective action to mitigate its impacts and reduce greenhouse gas emissions (2). Climate change includes :
Rising Temperatures: An example of this is heatwave and wildfire which is becoming more frequent and intensified. Rising temperatures also contribute to the melting of glaciers and ice caps, leading to sea-level rise.
Extreme Weather Events: These include hurricanes, cyclones, floods, droughts, and wildfires.
Changing Precipitation Patterns: It changes rainfall patterns. Some regions may experience increased rainfall and higher flood risks, while others may face prolonged droughts and water scarcity.
Ocean Acidification. This acidification disrupts marine ecosystems and poses a threat to coral reefs, shellfish, and other marine organisms.
Loss of Biodiversity. It affects ecosystems and species by altering their habitats, migration patterns, and food availability.
How Does Climate Change Influence Natural Disasters?
Climate change does not directly cause natural disasters, it acts as a "threat multiplier," magnifying their impacts and increasing the risks associated with them. It has been linked to an increase in the frequency and severity of various natural disasters.
As global surface temperatures continue to rise, the likelihood of experiencing more frequent droughts and intensified storms is expected to increase. The increased heat in the atmosphere causes more water vapor to evaporate into the atmosphere, providing additional fuel for the development of stronger storms (3).
This phenomenon is becoming increasingly apparent through the heightened intensity of natural disasters, including cyclones that contribute to increased storm surges, resulting in more extensive coastal flooding and damage, wildfires and create conditions that are conducive to the spread and severity of wildfires experienced in Australia, Russia, and most recently Canada, droughts in East Africa that can lead to water scarcity, crop failure, reduced agricultural productivity, and ecological imbalances, floods in South Asia particularly in Bangladesh, Pakistan, China, and the Philippines causing widespread destruction and displacement., and the dry Corridor in Central America including parts of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua that are characterized by long periods of drought alternating with periods of heavy rainfall (4).
Furthermore, the combination of elevated atmospheric temperatures and warmer ocean surface temperatures can lead to higher wind speeds in tropical storms. This can result in more powerful and destructive storm systems. Additionally, rising sea levels pose a greater risk to coastal areas that are typically not exposed to the forceful impact of the ocean and the erosive power of waves and currents.
The Impact of Climate Change on Mental Health
Natural disasters can have a substantial and enduring effect on one's mental health. The psychological health of those who are afflicted by these catastrophic occurrences, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, wildfires, and tsunamis, suffers as much as any physical harm they may cause (5).
Anxiety, depression, and Psychological Distress. The aftermath of a natural disaster can evoke intense feelings of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress. Those affected or witnessed an occurrence may experience a sense of helplessness, fear, and uncertainty about the future. The loss of homes, personal belongings, and even loved ones can contribute to the development of mental health disorders.
Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Individuals who watch or personally experience life-threatening events during natural disasters frequently have traumatic experiences. Symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional discomfort, may result from this. The psychological effects might linger even after the acute danger has gone.
Survivor's Guilt and Grief. These people may struggle with survivor's guilt, feeling guilty for having survived when others did not. This can lead to a range of emotional challenges, including self-blame, shame, and a sense of responsibility for the suffering of others.
Health Risks and Emotional Toll. These health challenges can profoundly impact mental well-being. The heightened fear and anxiety surrounding the increased health risks, combined with the emotional toll of witnessing environmental degradation and loss, can elevate levels of stress, depression, and anxiety.
Social and Community Disruption. Disasters and environmental changes can fragment communities, leading to the displacement of individuals from their support systems and straining social relationships. This is more evident in countries that experience the worst flooding, earthquakes, and wildfires.
Resilience and Coping Strategies
Resilience and coping strategies play a crucial role in helping individuals and communities navigate the mental health challenges associated with natural disasters (6). Here are some key approaches to foster resilience and cope with the aftermath:
Seeking Social Support
Connecting with others who have experienced similar events can provide comfort, validation, and a sense of belonging. Joining support groups, participating in community activities, and reaching out to friends and family members can help individuals feel understood and supported during the recovery process.
Self-Care and Emotional Wellbeing
Engaging in self-care practices is essential for promoting emotional well-being. This can include maintaining a healthy routine, getting sufficient sleep, eating nutritious meals, and engaging in physical activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction. Prioritizing self-care allows individuals to replenish their energy and build resilience.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Practicing mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques can help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions. These techniques promote present-moment awareness and can provide a sense of calm and inner peace.
Remember, resilience takes time, and everyone's journey is unique. It's essential to be patient with oneself and to seek support when needed. By utilizing these coping strategies, individuals can strengthen their resilience, promote their mental well-being, and navigate the challenges brought on by natural disasters more effectively.
Conclusion
Addressing climate change is essential for protecting our mental health. We need to take action now in order to reduce the impacts of climate change on our lives. This means reducing emissions, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and investing in sustainable practices so that we can protect ourselves from further environmental destruction.
It’s time to recognize the importance of addressing climate change for our mental health and take action now before it’s too late.
Resources:
BRIEFER: Climate Change as a “Threat Multiplier”: History, Uses and Future of the Concept « The Center for Climate & Security. Climateandsecurity. https://climateandsecurity.org/2023/01/briefer-climate-change-as-a-threat-multiplier-history-uses-and-future-of-the-concept/#:~:text=The%20term%20was%20coined%20in,to%20contribute%20to%20security%20risks.
What Is Climate Change? | United Nations. Un. https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/what-is-climate-change
How can climate change affect natural disasters? | U.S. Geological Survey. Usgs. https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/how-can-climate-change-affect-natural-disasters#news
5 natural disasters that beg for climate action | Oxfam International. Oxfam. https://www.oxfam.org/en/5-natural-disasters-beg-climate-action
mental-health-climate.pdf. Apa. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2017/03/mental-health-climate.p
Psychiatry.org - Climate Change and Mental Health Connections. Psychiatry. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/climate-change-and-mental-health-connections