In a recent study published in Nature Mental Health, researchers assessed the effects of chronic climate change on mental health.
The global concern about climate change and its impact on mental health is informed by years of research into the relationship between exposure to environmental disasters and mental health outcomes. Acute climate events have been linked to increased symptoms and cases of psychiatric disorders, negative emotions, behavioral indicators of poor mental health, non-specific psychological distress, and utilization of mental health services.
Climate change causes long-term changes in weather patterns, and communities are exposed to slow-onset conditions that evolve gradually from incremental changes over the years. These chronic climate conditions or slow-onset events include long-term changes in precipitation and temperature, soil degradation, and chronic drought. Their impact on mental health is less well characterized.