NEW DELHI — A silent and growing mental health crisis, driven by the escalating effects of climate change, is threatening communities worldwide. Experts are highlighting a range of psychological impacts, from direct trauma and eco-anxiety to increased aggression and inequality, all of which demand urgent policy action.
Disasters and Disproportionate Impacts
Climate-induced disasters are a primary source of this psychological toll. The recent Sikkim Glacial Lake Outburst Flood, which displaced over 7,000 people, is a stark example. Survivors have reported symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and panic attacks.
However, a major issue is that disaster management plans often lack crucial provisions for counseling and psychiatric support. A survey following the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami found a 27.2% prevalence of depression and anxiety among survivors, revealing that the incidence of psychological disorders after a disaster is 40% higher than that of physical injuries.
The burden of this crisis is not shared equally. Vulnerable and marginalized communities are disproportionately affected. In cities, residents of slums and informal settlements are more exposed to heat stress than those in gated communities with access to green spaces and air conditioning. This disparity is further exacerbated because many in these communities work in outdoor sectors, like agriculture and construction, which are most impacted by rising temperatures.
Rising Temperatures, Aggression, and Cognitive Decline
Beyond disasters, the gradual rise in global temperatures is directly linked to changes in human behavior. The “temperature-aggression hypothesis” suggests that higher temperatures can increase irritability and aggressive behavior. Research from the Yale School of the Environment found a positive correlation between rising temperatures and rates of violent crimes. Even a 1°C increase in annual mean temperature has been associated with a 4.49% rise in interpersonal violence against women in South Asia.
Rising heat also impairs cognitive function. A study by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health showed that students perform cognitive tasks more slowly in warmer settings. The economic consequences are significant, with the International Labour Organisation estimating that heat stress could lead to labor productivity losses of US$2.4 trillion by 2030.
Addressing the Crisis with Policy Action
To combat this growing crisis, experts are calling for urgent policy changes. A key first step is improving data collection, as the current lack of systematic data hides the true severity of the problem. India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change and Mental Health (NPCCMH) is a commendable effort, but its successful implementation at the local level is crucial.
Other recommendations include:
• Integrating mental health support into local disaster management plans.
• Providing localized counseling services through existing health centers and tele-counseling programs.
• Investing in infrastructure changes to combat the “urban heat island effect,” such as expanding green spaces and adopting climate-friendly construction practices.
A comprehensive, multi-stakeholder approach is essential to build resilience and address the mental health challenges posed by a warming planet.