Readings ahead of time and reading questions
Choose ONE of these TWO articles
Hayes, K., Blashki, G., Wiseman, J., Burke, S., & Reifels, L. (2018). Climate change and mental health: risks, impacts and priority actions. International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 12 (28). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13033-018-0210-6
Lawrance, E., Thompson, R., Fontana, G., & Jennings, N. (2021). The impact of climate change on mental health and emotional wellbeing: current evidence and implications for policy and practice. Briefing Paper. 36, Grantham Institute, Imperial College London.
Plus scroll down to view video in (Lawrance, et al): https://www.imperial.ac.uk/grantham/publications/all-publications/the-impact-of-climate-change-on-mental-health-and-emotional-wellbeing-current-evidence-and-implications-for-policy-and-practice.php
Of additional interest-recommended : view this 6 minute video which focuses on clinical presentation of mental health issues of climate change:
DISCUSSION TOPICS/QUESTIONS:
1. What are the major domains of mental health/psychiatric impacts of climate change?
2. Identify the major mental health impacts on extreme heat/heat waves? How can these me mitigated?
3. Identify the major mental health risks of climate related disasters? Consider the climate related pre-conditions of disasters and sequelae of disasters.
4. Identify the most vulnerable populations and why? How do social determinants of health contribute to vulnerability?
5. Consider ways that racism plays a factor in population vulnerabilities.
6. What are the particular concerns in Southern Hemisphere/Africa regarding climate change & climate change and mental health?