“Climate Change Crisis: How Americans’ Mental Health is Being Impacted”
A new poll conducted by the American Psychiatric Association has found that more Americans are reporting that climate change is negatively impacting their mental health. The survey, which included over 2,200 adults, revealed that 53% of respondents believe that the effects of global warming are affecting Americans’ mental well-being. This is an increase from 48% in a similar poll conducted in 2022.
The poll also highlighted that younger generations are more anxious about the threat of climate change compared to older generations. The majority of respondents aged 18-34 stated that climate change impacts their mental and physical health, while less than a quarter of adults aged 65 and older reported the same.
In addition to mental health concerns, the poll showed that climate change is also affecting other aspects of people’s lives. Respondents reported that climate change is impacting their access to food, personal finances, family, housing, neighborhood, job or career, and education.
When it comes to race, Black and Hispanic Americans were more likely to agree that climate change is impacting mental health compared to white Americans. Additionally, a majority of Americans expressed worry about how the government is handling the threat of climate change, with about a fifth of respondents stating that they were very anxious about the government’s response.
APA President Dr. Ramaswamy Viswanathan emphasized the importance of recognizing the impact of climate change on mental health and encouraged individuals to seek hope in the solutions that can be adopted on both individual and global scales.
As climate change continues to be a pressing issue, it is essential for individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek support when needed. For more information on how to prepare for disasters like wildfires and hurricanes, visit ready.gov.
Source: American Psychiatric Association, news release, June 18, 2024
In conclusion, the poll findings highlight the growing concern among Americans regarding the impact of climate change on mental health. It is crucial for individuals, communities, and governments to address these concerns and work towards sustainable solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change on mental well-being.