The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident worldwide. From rising sea levels to increased storm activity, the impacts of climate change can be devastating and far-reaching.
But what is less talked about is how climate change can have an effect on mental health, specifically depression. In recent years, research has shown that there is a significant connection between climate change, its associated events such as extreme weather , and depression.
One study from the University of California, Berkeley found that people living in areas prone to extreme weather events experienced significantly higher rates of depression than those not exposed to such events. The effects were especially acute in rural populations. This could be due to the fact that rural populations are already more vulnerable to climate change due to their limited access to resources and infrastructure.
In addition , a growing body of research suggests that climate-related events such as floods, hurricanes, and droughts can lead to an increase in depression among those affected. Studies have found that people in areas affected by extreme weather are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues.
Climate change can also lead to social disruption which can have an additional effect on mental health. People may experience feelings of grief, loss, and helplessness as their communities are destroyed or altered by extreme weather. This can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair that is difficult to cope with.
As climate change continues to accelerate, it is important to recognize the potential impacts it can have on mental health. Organizations should work to develop strategies to identify and address the mental health needs of those affected by climate change, as well as provide support and resources to help them cope with their depression. In addition, more research is needed to understand the full impact of climate change on mental health and develop effective interventions.
The psychological impacts of climate change can be far-reaching and long-lasting. In addition to depression, studies have found that people living in areas affected by extreme weather events are at an increased risk for developing anxiety disorders, PTSD, and other mental health issues. This is especially true for those living in rural areas due to their limited access to resources and infrastructure.
What is Climate Anxiety?
People today are increasingly aware of climate change facts that they hear about in media reports and through personal experiences. The potential catastrophes that may follow sudden environmental changes as a result of global warming can cause fear in almost any individual regardless of their age or profession. People are worried about the future planet they will leave for their children and grandchildren with the added uncertainty brought by climate change predictions. This has in turn created an atmosphere where people feel overwhelmed by burden caused by this issue. In order to ease that feeling however society needs to take action now before it too late.
How common is it?
Climate anxiety is becoming increasingly common in Americans. According to a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, more than two-thirds of Americans currently experience some form of climate anxiety. This is particularly true for children and young adults, as demonstrated by a study published by The Lancet which found that 84% of this demographic are at least moderately worried about climate change, and 59% expressed extreme concern. This heightened level of fear makes sense given that these age groups will suffer the most dramatic consequences from environmental damage; as reported in a 2021 UNICEF report, up to one billion children around the world may face “extremely high risk” due to climate change.
How to manage it
It can also help to share your worries and fears with trusted friends, a therapist, or by joining a support group. Opening up about what you’re feeling can be therapeutic and cathartic; it can also allow others who may be in the same situation to vocalise their anxieties too. Joining an organization like The Good Grief Network can help you process feelings related to climate anxiety and connect with others to take meaningful action. Being part of a wider community united in preserving the planet provides comfort and helps individuals channel their anxiety into something positive and productive – supporting each other through collective action.
The Ness Center offers a wide range of counseling and group support services to help you learn more about climate anxiety and your future. Talk to us today to learn more.