The devastating effects of climate change on our environment and communities are well-documented. However, one crucial yet often overlooked consequence is its impact on mental health.
Climate-related events have been linked to increased anxiety, grief, depression, violence, and suicide. In a world increasingly shaped by climate change, prioritizing mental health care is essential for fostering resilience and well-being.
On May 14, 2024, Kaiser Permanente and the World Economic Forum hosted a significant event as part of the “Connecting Climate Change and Health” series. Leaders from various sectors gathered to share resources and insights on prioritizing mental health and equity, with a focus on the workforce, youth, and families. The event, broadcast live on We Don’t Have Time, aimed to chart a path toward a healthier, more resilient future for all.
Welcome Remarks
Dr. Shyam Bishen of the World Economic Forum opened the event, underscoring the critical link between climate change and mental health. She emphasized the necessity for global collaboration to address these intertwined crises. Recent data shows that over 40% of 7,000 respondents in a social media poll reported that their mental health or that of their loved ones had been impacted by climate-related events.
Fireside Chat with Hawaii Governor Josh Green, MD
Hawaii Governor Josh Green shared harrowing experiences from the Maui wildfire on August 8, 2023. The wildfire, exacerbated by climate change, resulted in significant loss of life and property, leading to widespread psychological distress. Governor Green stressed the importance of a holistic recovery approach, addressing both the immediate and long-term mental health impacts of such disasters.
He highlighted the severe psychological toll on individuals who witnessed or experienced the wildfire, including trauma, heightened levels of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Governor Green shared poignant stories of survivors, such as a 15-year-old who drove his family to safety for the first time and an elderly man who couldn’t save his wife from their burning home. Beyond the immediate psychological impact, the wildfire caused significant economic challenges, such as housing insecurity and increased living costs, exacerbating mental health issues within the community. He advocated for trauma-informed responses and the importance of community and governmental support in rebuilding and healing.
Panel Discussion: The Intricate Link Between Climate Change and Mental Health
Moderator Jennifer Uchendu, Founder of SustyVibes, guided a discussion with esteemed panelists who provided valuable insights on current research and practical interventions.
Insights from Dr. Britt Wray on Eco-Anxiety
Dr. Britt Wray, Director of Community-minded Interventions for Resilience, Climate Leadership, and Emotional (CIRCLE) at Stanford Psychiatry, discussed the broader implications of climate anxiety and the importance of addressing mental health as a component of climate action. Key points from her discussion included:
Interconnection of Physical and Mental Health: Dr. Wray emphasized the bidirectional relationship between physical health and mental health. As physical health deteriorates due to climate impacts, mental health also suffers.
Climate Anxiety as an Adaptive Response: She explained that climate anxiety, while distressing, can be a motivating force for positive action. It is a reasonable response to a global threat and can drive individuals to engage in pro-environmental behaviors.
Importance of Intergenerational Solidarity: Dr. Wray highlighted the need for intergenerational connections to foster resilience and combat feelings of betrayal among the youth. She emphasized that young people need to see adults actively working towards solutions to feel supported and empowered.
By drawing attention to the profound connection between climate change and mental health, this event underscored the need for comprehensive strategies to address this hidden crisis, promoting resilience and well-being in the face of an uncertain future.
