Climate trauma, explained

Climate trauma refers to the emotional and psychological distress caused by the impact of climate change on individuals, communities, and societies. It can result from experiencing or witnessing extreme weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, floods, droughts, or heatwaves, as well as from the slow onset of climate-related changes, such as sea-level rise, biodiversity loss, and changes in weather patterns.

Climate trauma can manifest in various ways, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health conditions. It can also lead to physical health problems, such as respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular diseases, due to the direct and indirect effects of climate change.

Individuals who are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as low-income communities, people living in coastal areas, and those who rely on natural resources for their livelihoods, are more likely to experience climate trauma. However, climate change affects everyone, and it is increasingly recognized as a global public health issue that requires urgent action to mitigate and adapt to its impacts.