The Mental Health Services Conference 2021: On Demand-Climate Change as a Sociopolitical Determinant of Mental Health

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, titled "Climate Change as a Socio-Political Determinant of Mental Health," a panel discusses the links between climate change and mental health and how clinicians and advocates can address these issues. The panel consists of three national leaders on climate change and mental health: Dr. Elizabeth Haas, Dr. David Pollack, and Dr. Robin Cooper.<br /><br />Dr. Haas discusses case examples that illustrate the climate and socio-political determinants of mental health. She emphasizes the importance of emotional attitudes, social factors, and public policies in shaping mental health outcomes related to climate change. For example, she explores the case of a Mexican-American woman who experiences depression following her son's suicide during a heatwave. Dr. Haas raises questions about how heat, air pollution, social factors, and cultural attitudes contribute to mental health risks in this case.<br /><br />Dr. Pollack discusses the broader concept of social determinants of health and mental health, which include factors such as poverty, education, housing, and access to healthcare. He highlights the need for comprehensive and preventive interventions to address the impacts of climate change on mental health, and emphasizes the role of transformational resilience in building adaptive capabilities at individual, community, and policy levels.<br /><br />Dr. Cooper focuses on specific solutions for addressing mental health impacts related to climate change. She discusses interventions at different levels, including individual, community, and policy responses. She highlights the importance of providing education, support, and resources to individuals experiencing climate-related distress. Dr. Cooper also emphasizes the need for community-based interventions, such as support groups and collaboration with community leaders. At the policy level, she advocates for measures such as infrastructure improvements, housing policies, and support for vulnerable populations.<br /><br />Overall, the panel emphasizes the interconnectedness of climate change, social determinants of health, and mental health, and the importance of taking action at multiple levels to address these issues effectively.

Keywords

Climate Change

Socio-Political Determinant

Mental Health

Clinicians

Advocates

Social Factors

Transformational Resilience

Community Interventions

Policy Responses

Vulnerable Populations

Taking Action