Climate change and mental health are two of the greatest global challenges societies face and are deeply
interconnected. Climate change impacts mental health by increasing the risk of new mental health challenges
and increasing the vulnerability of people with mental health challenges. Individuals and communities
increasingly experience climate-related psychological distress and elevated risk of post-traumatic stress
disorder, anxiety and mood disorders, substance use problems and suicide. This can be due to compounding
stressors from direct experiences of extreme climate and weather events and their aftermath, including food
and water insecurity, forced migration, poverty, cultural disruptions and violence. Awareness of current and
future hazards associated with the climate crisis and insufficient action from leaders can also cause distress,
that while not pathological, can pose risks to mental health and wellbeing.