Whatsapp 93125-11015 For Details

Important Editorial Summary for UPSC Exam

8May
2024

The Unseen Effects of Climate Change on Mental Health (GS Paper 2, Society)

The Unseen Effects of Climate Change on Mental Health (GS Paper 2, Society)

Introduction

  • As temperatures rise across India, the impact of climate change extends beyond physical discomfort to affect mental health.
  • While it may be challenging to directly attribute each heat event to climate change, the increasing frequency and intensity of such anomalies are undeniable.

 

Affecting Society

  • Climate change disproportionately impacts society's most vulnerable members, including those with physical ailments, the elderly, and the economically marginalized.
  • Moreover, it has sparked a range of psychological afflictions such as eco-anxiety, eco-paralysis, and solastalgia, exacerbating existing mental health conditions.

 

A Dubious Distinction

  • Studies have shown that extreme heat events disproportionately affect individuals with mental health conditions, surpassing the impact on those with physical ailments like kidney and heart disease.
  • Furthermore, people with schizophrenia, anxiety, or bipolar disorder face a heightened risk of succumbing to heat-related deaths.

 

Dysfunction of the Hypothalamus

  • Researchers suggest that individuals with schizophrenia are particularly vulnerable to heat stress due to dysfunction in the hypothalamus, a brain structure crucial for maintaining bodily homeostasis.
  • Certain antipsychotic medications can also interfere with the hypothalamus's function, potentially raising body temperature and exacerbating heat-related risks.

 

Challenges Faced by Individuals with Schizophrenia

  • Individuals with schizophrenia often experience psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations and delusions, which may hinder their ability to recognize heat-related illness.
  • Additionally, comorbidities like diabetes and hypertension, coupled with marginalization and economic disadvantage, further increase vulnerability to heat-related illnesses.

 

Way Forward

  • To mitigate the risks faced by individuals with schizophrenia during heatwaves, it is crucial for families and caregivers to recognize the heightened risk and take proactive measures.
  • This includes educating oneself on the symptoms of heat-related illness and implementing emergency cooling measures when necessary.

 

Conclusion

  • In conclusion, addressing the intersection of climate change and mental health requires holistic approaches that prioritize awareness, education, and support for vulnerable populations, ensuring their safety and well-being in an increasingly challenging environment.