Climate change is here and everyone on the planet is starting to feel its effects. Reports say that 2016 was the hottest year on record, with rising temperatures observed all over the world. Now, new reports show that climate change may pose a threat to mental health as well.
According to a CNN Health report, people who bear the brunt of disasters brought on by climate change are more likely to show signs of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Floods And Depression
The report mentioned a study done about a group of people living in areas prone to flooding from 2013-2014. There were 2,000 respondents who were directly affected by floods. They registered the most number of signs of depression: anxiety and PTSD. Those who were not affected had the lowest number of mental health conditions.
According to psychologist James Rubin of Kings College London, “One of the major health effects of flooding seems to be the mental health aspects. There are a whole host of stressors around it.” This had led Rubin to recommend that mental health services should be part of any disaster response.
Rising Temperatures, Rising Tempers?
The report also cited the slower changes brought about by climate change. This includes increasing global temperatures which has a direct impact on natural resources.
Higher temperatures seemed to have contributed to aggression and violent behavior according to psychologist Susan Clayton. She also studied the impact of climate change on health. The studies she looked at showed that “we are less tolerant of other people.”
Forced Migration Causes Stress On Communities
She also noted that stress and anxiety is much higher among communities who experience forced migration. Those who live in coastal areas that are directly threatened by rising ocean levels, for example, are forced to move to other areas. Finding another place to live in and relocating all place undue stress on families and whole communities.