S1E103: Climate change is a mental health issue

Jul 16, 2023

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The climate crisis is causing a mental health crisis as anxiety over the future robs many of a sense of hope.

Synopsis: Every first and third Monday of the month, The Straits Times analyses the beat of the changing environment, from biodiversity conservation to climate change.

Anxiety about climate change can trigger feelings of helplessness and anger at governments and businesses for not doing enough to take action. There's disappointment that leaders are not treating the climate crisis as a real global crisis. Some young couples say they do not want to have children, fearing that the future will be too bleak.

Yet there is hope. In this special episode of Green Pulse, The Straits Times' US Bureau Chief Nirmal Ghosh speaks with Dr Britt Wray, an expert on climate change and mental health at Stanford University's School of Medicine.

Dr Wray describes how climate anxiety is a mental health issue but also looks at ways to cope. For instance, looking at positive examples of adapting to climate change and positive climate policies. And the benefits of building strong social bonds within communities to reduce the feelings of being isolated and alone. Collective understanding and action can be a powerful uniting force, she says.

Highlights (click/tap above):

1:30 Is there enough recognition of climate anxiety as part of the climate crisis?

3:12 Are we seeing the death of optimism or is there a determination to take action?

9:31 “Climate anxiety is hurting mental health everywhere.”

13:10 How is the media reporting on the climate crisis and has it fed growing feelings of anxiety?

18:21 What is your elevator pitch on climate anxiety and ways to help people cope?

Helplines
MENTAL WELL-BEING
• Institute of Mental Health’s Mental Health Helpline: 6389-2222 (24 hours)
• Samaritans of Singapore: 1-767 (24 hours) / 9151-1767 (24 hours CareText via WhatsApp)
• Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019
• Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386-1928
• Tinkle Friend: 1800-274-4788
• Chat, Centre of Excellence for Youth Mental Health: 6493-6500/1
• Women’s Helpline (Aware): 1800-777-5555 (weekdays, 10am to 6pm)COUNSELLING
• TOUCHline (Counselling): 1800-377-2252
• TOUCH Care Line (for caregivers): 6804-6555
• Care Corner Counselling Centre: 6353-1180
• Counselling and Care Centre: 6536-6366ONLINE RESOURCES
•  mindline.sg
•  eC2.sg
•  tinklefriend.sg
•  chat.mentalhealth.sg
•  carey.carecorner.org.sg (for those aged 13 to 25)
•  limitless.sg/talk (for those aged 12 to 25)