Climate change is often associated with its physical impacts on our planet, but recent research highlights its profound effects on mental health. In a BBC video, neuroscientist Clayton Aldern and assistant professor of applied psychology Charles Ogunbode discuss how extreme weather events are influencing psychological well-being, emphasizing the urgent need to address these issues alongside environmental concerns.

The Psychological Toll of Climate Change

The Psychological Toll of Climate Change
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Clayton Aldern points out that climate change affects not only our physical world but also our mental health. He explains that the changing environment is having a direct impact on our brains and inner psychology, stating, “Climate change is bearing directly on brain health, on mental health, on our inner psychology, right? Climate change is changing us from the inside out.” As we face more frequent extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, these changes can lead to increased anxiety, stress, and other mental health issues.

Heatwaves and Mental Health

Heatwaves and Mental Health
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Charles Ogunbode’s research in the UK, particularly following the 2022 heatwave, reveals that over half of the people surveyed experienced negative mental health effects due to the heat. Ogunbode explains, “People talk about things like experiencing severe anxiety and emotional distress, general irritability, bad moods, a sense of isolation from having to stay indoors.” These issues are often linked to sleep disruption and the inability to engage in outdoor activities that help manage stress.

Societal and Economic Factors

Societal and Economic Factors
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Ogunbode also highlights the disproportionate impact of extreme weather on different societal groups. Those with lower incomes often struggle more to keep their homes cool, exacerbating stress and anxiety. He states, “On a very basic level, people with more income have more resources to cope during these sorts of periods.” This disparity is not only a matter of comfort but also a significant contributor to mental health challenges in disadvantaged communities.

Gender Disparities in Climate Impact

Gender Disparities in Climate Impact
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The research also indicates that climate change affects men and women differently due to societal factors like traditional gender roles. For instance, during heatwaves, women are often the ones to pick up additional childcare duties when schools close. Ogunbode shares a story of a mother in a deprived area who struggled to keep her baby’s room cool during a heatwave, highlighting the added stress and responsibility placed on women in these situations.

Long-term Psychological Effects

Long term Psychological Effects
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Aldern discusses the long-term psychological effects of climate-related events, citing studies on Hurricane Sandy and Hurricane Katrina. These studies reveal that exposure to extreme weather events in utero or during childhood can lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and ADHD. “In unborn children who did experience that storm, girls as early as preschool were 20 times as likely to experience anxiety, 30 times as likely to experience depression,” Aldern notes.

Finding Hope and Resilience

Finding Hope and Resilience
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Despite the daunting challenges posed by climate change, Aldern emphasizes that awareness of the relationship between climate change and mental health can lead to positive outcomes. He says, “Being able to come to an awareness of the relationships between climate change and brain health affords us an ability to paint a picture of a future that we desire.” By acknowledging and addressing these issues, individuals and communities can work towards resilience and well-being.

Strategies for Coping

Strategies for Coping
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Both Aldern and Ogunbode suggest practical strategies to support mental health in the face of climate change. Engaging with nature and spending time in green spaces can help alleviate stress. Social connections are also crucial for mental well-being, as Ogunbode notes, “Social connection is a really big one as well.” Building strong community ties and fostering connections can provide support and resilience against the mental health challenges posed by a changing climate.

“Hot and Bothered!”

“Hot and Bothered!”
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People in the comments shared their thoughts: “People are generally very irritable when it’s hot..  hot and bothered!!”

One commenter shared their personal experience: “I have depression and the extreme heat just makes it kick in so much, it’s a lot worse during extreme heat.”

Another person said: “I spend summers indoors. I only step outside to see some natural sunlight once every 7 to 10 days.  I live in Philadelphia.”

Environmental Sustainability and Mental Health

Environmental Sustainability and Mental Health
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As the impacts of climate change on mental health become more apparent, it is essential to integrate psychological well-being into climate action plans. By understanding and addressing these effects, we can create a future that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and mental health, ensuring a more resilient and compassionate society.

Increasing Awareness

Increasing Awareness
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What are your thoughts? How can governments and communities better integrate mental health support into climate action plans and policies? What role can education play in increasing awareness and understanding of the mental health impacts of climate change? How can individuals and communities build resilience and support systems to cope with the mental health challenges posed by climate change?

Find out more by watching the full video on BBC News’ YouTube channel here.