The climate crisis is an urgent and ongoing emergency that affects every individual on Earth. It has severe mental health and psychosocial implications, particularly in the poorest and most unstable regions where the impact on health and well-being is most acute. Addressing these implications is crucial in order to support those most affected by the crisis, says Shona Whitton, a Technical Advisor at the IFRC PS Centre.
The health risks associated with the climate crisis are increasing for populations worldwide, leading to both direct and indirect impacts on mental health and well-being. However, these impacts are often overlooked. The IFRC Reference Centre for Psychosocial Support (PS Centre) aims to promote and facilitate mental health and psychosocial well-being globally. Their work focuses on assisting Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies in building their capacity to provide mental health and psychosocial support services to those in need.
In this report, the focus is on the climate-related mental health risks identified by National Societies consulted by the IFRC. The report highlights population groups at risk and addresses the implications for the work of IFRC staff and volunteers. It also showcases examples of initiatives from National Societies that demonstrate potential approaches to addressing the mental health and psychosocial challenges that arise from the climate crisis.
