Climate change is taking a toll on our minds - here's how

When we talk about climate change, we usually think about melting ice caps, rising sea levels, or extreme weather. But there’s another consequence unfolding more quietly – and it’s happening in our minds.

Climate change isn’t just damaging the planet – it’s affecting our mental health. In a recent review of global research, our team looked at 17 studies exploring how climate change is linked to mental health. What we found was striking.

People across the world are experiencing increased levels of anxiety, depression, trauma, and psychological stress as a direct result of a changing climate. And it’s not just those facing disasters – even the anticipation of what’s to come is weighing heavily on people’s well-being.

When the weather affects your mood – literally

Rising temperatures don’t just make people uncomfortable – they’re making people unwell. Studies show that even small increases in daily temperatures can lead to more cases of depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and suicide. Young people seem especially vulnerable.

In fact, some psychiatric admissions spike during heatwaves. The hotter it gets, the harder it becomes for people already living with mental health conditions.

Rising sea levels aren't just about flooded homes

For people living in coastal or low-lying areas, the fear of rising seas brings real psychological stress. Imagine knowing your home may not exist in a few decades, or worrying about how your family will survive if it floods tomorrow.

Research shows that sea level rise is linked to an increase in anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The threat doesn’t have to be immediate to be harmful – just knowing it’s coming is enough to take a toll.

Surviving a climate disaster changes you

Whether it’s hurricanes, wildfires, floods or droughts, extreme weather events leave more than physical damage behind. Many people exposed to climate disasters develop long-term mental health issues, including PTSD and anxiety.

The trauma of losing a home, a livelihood, or even a loved one can stay with someone for years. Those with existing mental health challenges – and women in particular – often face the highest risk.

Climate anxiety is real (and growing)

Have you ever felt anxious about the future of the planet? You’re not alone. Climate anxiety – that nagging sense of fear, helplessness or sadness about the climate crisis – is a growing issue, especially among young people.

Some people worry about environmental destruction, mass migration, or economic collapse. Others fear that governments and global leaders aren’t doing enough. This kind of chronic worry can lead to poor sleep, low mood, and even panic attacks. In severe cases, it may contribute to psychotic symptoms or severe depression.

It’s not just worry – it’s impacting care

One of the most alarming findings is that climate change is making it harder for people with mental health conditions to manage their care. Heatwaves and climate stress have been linked to poor medication compliance, more frequent hospital admissions, and reduced chances of recovery.

For those already struggling, climate change is adding pressure to an already heavy burden.

So, what can we do?

The good news? We’re not powerless.

Mental health needs to be part of how we respond to the climate crisis – not just in hospitals, but in schools, communities, policies, and climate planning.

Mental health professionals must be trained to recognise climate-related stress. Public health systems must prepare for the psychological effects of disasters, displacement, and anxiety. And, as individuals, we need access to support systems that help us build resilience and cope with uncertainty.

Crucially, this isn't just about surviving the climate crisis: it’s about making sure people have the mental strength to adapt, recover, and thrive in the face of change.

We often hear that the climate crisis is the defining issue of our time. That’s true, but it’s not just an environmental problem. It’s a human one. And to tackle it properly, we need to start looking after our minds as much as our planet.

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Dr Oladapo Akinlotan, Senior Lecturer, ARU School of Nursing; Dr Dinithi Vidanage, Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka; Allen O’Connor, Edge Hill University; Dr Aditi Choudhury, University of Hertfordshire; Dr Lauren Crabb, Director of International, Apprenticeships and Partner Colleges, ARU Faculty of Health, Medicine and Social Care