Publication:

Extreme weather and psychiatric illnesses

Extreme weather changes as seen in recent years due to climate change are part of larger Anthropocene syndrome majorly caused by greenhouse gas emissions. The industrial revolution in 18th century and rapid globalisation in 20th century have majorly contributed to this change. Though the adverse impact of these changes on mental health are known, the scope of the impact is poorly understood. Climate change can impact mental health by direct and indirect way in short and long term which can range from mild distress to clinical illness. Researchers are trying to understand interaction between the determinants of psychiatric illnesses and climate change to predict future population-level responses to these changes. Policy makers, healthcare sector and communities will have to take responsibility to devise strategies to not only deal with health impacts but, to reduce greenhouse gas emission and global warming. Targeted strategies directed towards those at risk to develop psychiatric illnesses should be implemented.