The devastation caused by Super Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines in 2013 is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change. With the effects of climate change becoming more prominent and widespread, people all over the world are grappling with the mental health repercussions. This growing phenomenon, often referred to as “eco-anxiety,” has sparked a surge in research to better understand the psychological effects of climate change and how they differ among individuals worldwide.
Dr. Alison Hwong, a psychiatry fellow at the University of California San Francisco, joins guest host Maggie Koerth to discuss the global eco-anxiety crisis and the research findings on strategies to mitigate its negative impacts. This research sheds light on the various ways in which people are impacted by climate change psychologically and provides insight into how best to alleviate the resulting anxiety and stress.
For those looking for a supportive space to process climate anxiety, Climate Cafes and online resources are available. Organizations such as the Climate Psychiatry Alliance offer valuable resources to therapists who are seeking to better support clients dealing with eco-anxiety. By addressing the mental health impacts of climate change and providing support to those affected, we can work towards building a more resilient and healthier global community.