Climate change isn’t just about the rising temperatures or erratic weather; it’s causing a storm in our
emotions too. Have you heard about eco-anxiety; ecological grief, or solastalgia? These aren’t
just fancy words; they re emotions tied to climate change. Think of eco-anxiety as a mix of worry and
hopelessness about the future, especially among the younger generation. Ecological grief? It’s the
feeling of loss linked to environmental changes. And solastalgia? Picture that bittersweet ache for a
vanishing way of life when you revisit a familiar spot, yet everything feels different. These words
help us grasp the emotional rollercoaster that comes with our changing world.

When hurricanes, wildfires, or floods strike, the emotional scars run deep. Anxiety, helplessness,
depression, and even thoughts of suicide surface, hitting those at the epicenter the hardest. Yet, the
impact ripples far beyond, with a considerable part of the population reporting anxiety tied to
climate change. With soaring temperatures and worsening pollution, mental health faces even more
hurdles. Higher temperatures correlate with a surge in mental health emergencies, while prolonged
exposure to air pollution heightens anxiety and suicide rates. And as weather patterns disrupt lives,
financial stress mounts for farmers and businesses alike.

Certain groups feel this intersection of mental health and climate change more intensely. Individuals
with existing mental health issues or substance use concerns are more susceptible to the amplified
heat and humidity. Communities of color, particularly Black and Indigenous groups, often reside in
areas burdened by higher temperatures, pollution, and increased flood risks, worsening their
vulnerability.

On a global scale, young people are feeling the weight of climate change. A sizable chunk holds
concerns about its daily impact. Surprisingly, exposure to extreme climate events during pregnancy
might increase the risk of mental health issues in children. Older adults, especially those with pre-
existing mental health conditions, find themselves more isolated and vulnerable amidst these
climate-related events.

So, what’s the solution? A comprehensive approach is crucial. Integrating mental health services into
emergency responses, offering tailored support for PTSD, and educating healthcare providers about
the climate-mental health link are vital steps. Engagement in climate initiatives also empowers
individuals and communities, fighting against feelings of despair.

But here’s a twist. While we’re talking floods and heatwaves, the mental health toll often takes a
backseat. Google searches reveal a surge in queries about climate anxiety, particularly in women. This surge doesn’t always align with heightened anxiety levels in those countries. Nordic
countries lead the charge in these searches, with studies hinting at women’s higher vulnerability and
concern regarding climate change impacts. It’s a disparity linked to various factors, from how
women express emotions to their susceptibility to climate change impacts. And this issue isn’t just a
footnote; it’s gaining traction. The IPCC shone a spotlight on mental health's role in climate change,
expected to be a hot topic at COP28.

So, while the storms rage on, let’s not forget the emotional turbulence that follows. Understanding
these complexities will be key to protecting mental well-being as we navigate the uncharted waters
of a changing climate.