Mental health in a time of crisis: the detrimental effects of climate change

This chapter explores the relationship between climate change and mental health on an international stage. Climate change is a threat to mental health, both as a result of acute climate-induced events (e.g., floods and hurricanes) and long-term environmental change (e.g., air pollution and droughts). Mental health impacts due to climate change include developing mental disorders, experiencing trauma, anxiety about the changing climate, higher levels of suicidality, and poor psychosocial outcomes. These impacts tend to be more severe in low- and middle-income countries, as well as marginalised populations, such as Indigenous communities and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. To account for the ever-increasing demand for mental health services, resources should be tailored accordingly. We will need a larger, more comprehensive mental health workforce which is educated about climate change, services that are more proactive and fit-for-purpose, and more government funding, especially in regions that are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Implementing these solutions will help to ensure sustainable mental health care through the climate crisis.