Addressing the Impact of Environmental Change on Mental Health: Insights from the #MHForAll Webinar
The relationship between climate change and mental health, and the urgent need for action
This #MHForAll webinar shed light on the profound impact of environmental change on mental health. With our panel of experts discussing the implications, region-specific challenges, assessment tools, and actionable priorities, the conversation aimed to create awareness and explore ways to address this pressing issue.
Expert panel:
Babita Sharma, Author, Journalist and Presenter, UK (Chair)
Celine Charveriat, Independent Researcher and Environmentalist, Former Executive Director at Institute for European Environmental Policy (IEEP), France
Kris Prasad, Independent consultant and activist, Fiji
Davide Ziveri, MHPSS expert and Environmental Health Specialist, Handicap International - Humanité and Inclusion, Belgium
Jess Beagley, Policy Lead, Global Climate and Health Alliance, UK
Replay the session:
Session notes
Changing Environment and Mental Health: A Complex Relationship
Celine Charveriat, independent researcher and environmentalist, highlighted the intricate connection between mental health and the environment. Particularly in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), the population is already experiencing adverse effects on mental health and well-being due to human activities. Stress-related physical health problems and strained social relationships are among the consequences, exacerbated by changes to the environment. Extreme heat, for instance, has been linked to increased suicide rates, violence, insomnia, mood changes, and even higher mortality for those with existing mental health conditions.
Impact on Mental Health in the Pacific Region: Perspectives from SIDS
Representing the perspectives of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Kris Prasad emphasised the significant impact of climate change in the Pacific region. Fiji, for example, faces one of the highest suicide rates in the region. However, only a small portion of the health budget is allocated to mental health. Moreover, marginalised groups, such as LGBTQ individuals, experience additional stigma and vulnerability due to the climate crisis (and are sometimes blamed for the crisis itself). The relocation of coastal communities in countries such as Fiji due to the changing environment not only affects their physical well-being but also deeply impacts their mental health and cultural identity. Despite limited resources, Pacific islanders are actively fighting mental health stigma and building a mental health movement to respond to climate change.
The Role of Mental Health Advocates
Davide Ziveri, an expert from Handicap International - Humanité and Inclusion, emphasised the need to acknowledge that "business as usual" is no longer an option. Adopting a planetary health framework, which explores the interaction between health and the environment, is essential. Ziveri stressed the importance of integrating Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) at all stages of climate adaptation and environmental disasters. He also highlighted the significance of understanding communities affected by environmental changes, focusing not only on individual issues but also on the structural barriers that hinder mental health support.
Jess Beagley, a policy lead from the Global Climate and Health Alliance, outlined the priorities for climate health advocates internationally. Raising awareness of mental health as a powerful lever for climate change and integrating the environment into mental health messaging were emphasised. Beagley discussed the need to engage in consultations, protests, and key political processes, such as the World Health Assembly (WHA) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Proposed actions include integrating mental health into disaster risk reduction plans, promoting balanced healthy diets, and advocating for fossil fuel phase-out. She outlined plans for a 2024 WHA resolution on health and climate change and the plans for a health day at COP 2024.
Overcoming Challenges and Spreading Awareness
Looking forward, panellists expressed hope in the increasing number of individuals and organisations dedicated to tackling the issue of climate and environmental impacts on mental health. The mainstreaming of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) into emergency support for environmental events shows progressive change, said Ziveri. Overcoming obstacles requires persistence and recognising the urgency of the matter.
In answer to the question, what can best address mental health needs in the face of environmental challenges and climate changes, the speakers said:
“Supporting grass roots organisations ”
“Contributing to social change”
“Channelling our anger, love and thirst for justice to tackle the root causes and regenerate nature”
This #MHForAll webinar successfully highlighted the critical need to address the impact of environmental change on mental health. Through insightful discussions, it became evident that safeguarding mental health amidst the global environmental crisis requires collaborative efforts and holistic approaches. By integrating mental health into climate change agendas and adopting a holistic approach, we can work towards safeguarding mental well-being and creating a sustainable future for all.
Look out for more discussions and actions to drive positive change at the intersection of mental health and the environment.
LINKS
Humanity & Inclusion https://www.hi-us.org/
The Global Climate and Health Alliance https://climateandhealthalliance.org/
Global Climate and Health Alliance - subscribe for updates https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1tQXffYNUPuZhBa8SmNAv0J2VbQ6cbdz7mnt7sRFZEWo/edit
WHO policy brief: mental health and climate change https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240045125
The latest IPCC report https://www.ipcc.ch/ar6-syr/
IPCC report, health impacts chapter https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg2/chapter/chapter-7/
