853 - PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HEALTH

Session: P_D06S003 - Poster Session 3 - Division 6
AUTHORS:
Onyemaechi Chinwe (Department of Psychology Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University ~ Igbariam ~ Nigeria) , Philip Philip (Department of Psychology Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University ~ Igbariam ~ Nigeria) , Onwudiwe Anthony (Department of Psychology Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University ~ Igbariam ~ Nigeria) , Ibekwe Romanus (Department of Psychology Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University ~ Igbariam ~ Nigeria) , Israel Chukwunonso (Department of Psychology Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University ~ Igbariam ~ Nigeria)
Abstract text:
Climate change seems to be progressively more recognized not only as an environmental crisis but also as an intense public health challenge in the world today. Increase in global temperatures, extreme weather events, and environmental dreadful conditions contribute to a spectrum of mental health issues which include the following: anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and climate-related distress. Children, the elderly, and those in low-resource settings which are termed the vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected; experiencing heightened emotional stress and reduced psychological resilience. Through observations and empirical studies, it has been revealed that climate-induced disasters such as wildfires, floods, and droughts can trigger acute trauma and long-term psychological disorders. Moreover, the phenomenon of climate anxiety which is described as a chronic fear of environmental dooms is rising as a widespread concern, even among individuals not directly impacted by climate events. In regions facing persistent climate instability, such as parts of Africa and South Asia, mental health burdens are compounded by socioeconomic stressors, displacement, and loss of livelihood. This paper wish to address the urgent need for integrated mental health strategies within climate adaptation policies. In order to address the psychological toll of climate change, an integrated approach this requires cross-sector collaboration, psychoeducation, psychological assessment, psychotherapy, community-based interventions, and increased awareness. As climate change continues to evolve as a threat, its psychological effects demand equal attention alongside physical health impacts as well.