Impact statement
Climate change is increasingly exacerbating the psychological suffering of young Africans exposed to climate-related disasters like extreme weather events, droughts and floods. The chronic stress induced by these environmental shocks, compounded by uncertainty about the future, has far-reaching negative consequences for their mental health and well-being. Unless urgent action is taken, Africa risks raising a damaged generation psychologically scarred by the impacts of the climate crisis. It is therefore imperative to prioritise youth mental health support in climate policy and programming on the continent. Integrating psychosocial care into disaster response as well as fostering community resilience through culturally-sensitive awareness initiatives can help build coping skills to strengthen young minds against climate threats. Moreover, training more mental health practitioners and establishing youth-friendly services accessible even in remote areas are desperately needed. By addressing the root causes of eco-anxiety and stress among African youth, we can help them overcome trauma, stay hopeful and realise their full potential to lead their communities and continent despite environmental hazards. A healthier generation psychologically equipped to face climate realities is key to achieving long-term sustainability, stability and prosperity across Africa. Failure to act on the profound psychological toll of climate upheaval on young lives would be denying them, and the future of the continent, a fair chance at wellness. Urgent multi-pronged action is thus warranted to shield African youth’s mental health from current and impending climate impacts.
Introduction
Climate change and weather-related disasters not only result in direct impacts such as destruction and trauma but they also have indirect consequences like strained resources and interrupted community and societal functioning (Hickman et al., Reference Hickman, Marks, Pihkala, Clayton, Lewandowski, Mayall, Wray, Mellor and Susteren2021). These lead to climate-induced anxiety among young people, thus affecting their psychological and emotional well-being (Ramadan et al., Reference Ramadan, Randell, Lavoie, Gao, Manrique, Anderson, McDowell and Zbukvic2023). The experiences faced by young people in Africa today are increasingly marked by climate-induced disasters, resource shortages, inequality, and refugee crises, which can reduce social cohesion and also increase political instability (Tanner et al., Reference Tanner, Mazingi and Muyambwa2022). A study by Gasparri et al. (Reference Gasparri, Tcholakov, Gepp, Guerreschi, Ayowole, Okwudili, Uwandu, Sanchez Iturregui, Amer, Beaudoin and Sato2022) indicates that climate change has a profound impact on the psychological and emotional well-being of young people, with climate-related events leading to negative emotions and mental ill-health. The psychological impact of climate-related disasters disproportionately affects children, adolescents, and young people, making them more susceptible to conditions like PTSD, eco-anxiety, and depression, with long-lasting effects (Gasparri et al., Reference Gasparri, Tcholakov, Gepp, Guerreschi, Ayowole, Okwudili, Uwandu, Sanchez Iturregui, Amer, Beaudoin and Sato2022). As climate-induced disasters escalate, there is a growing need to understand their impact on children and young people, especially in the face of increasing climate threats (Gao et al., Reference Gao, Broder, Brilleman, Campbell, Berger, Ikin, Smith, Wolfe, Johnston, Guo and Carroll2023). Mental health services in Africa must collaborate with young people to develop strategies that enhance resilience to the psychological impacts of climate change (Godden et al., Reference Godden, Farrant, Yallup Farrant, Heyink, Carot Collins, Burgemeister, Tabeshfar, Barrow, West, Kieft, Rothwell, Leviston, Bailey, Blaise and Cooper2021). Addressing the psychological impact of climate-induced disasters on young people in Africa requires a holistic approach that considers the unique vulnerabilities and challenges faced by them. By understanding the psychological effects of climate change and implementing targeted interventions, it is possible to support the mental health and well-being of young people in Africa in the face of environmental challenges.
Climate-induced disasters, psychological effects on young people in Africa and the challenges in providing mental health support
Climate-induced disasters in Africa pose a significant challenge due to the continent’s vulnerability to the impacts of climate change. Several studies have pointed out the increased frequency and severity of disasters such as windstorms, floods, droughts and extreme weather events in various regions of Africa (Tirivangasi, Reference Tirivangasi2018; Shokane, Reference Shokane2019). Southern Africa, in particular, has historically been prone to climate-induced disasters like droughts and floods, which have had repercussions on the well-being of communities (Kamara et al., Reference Kamara, Wali, Agho and Renzaho2018). The consequences of these disasters go beyond immediate losses, impacting economic growth, agriculture, food security, and even contributing to conflicts in the region (Shimada, Reference Shimada2022). Moreover, the impact of climate change on mental health in Africa is a growing concern. A study by Atwoli et al. (Reference Atwoli, Muhia and Merali2022) has shown that climate change-related disasters have adverse effects on mental health, such as trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and suicidal thoughts. This also necessitates more research and awareness to prevent potential mental health crises in the future. Environmental shocks resulting from the climate crisis not only affect physical health but also have severe implications for mental well-being (Atwoli et al., Reference Atwoli, Muhia and Merali2022).
The psychological effects on young people in Africa exposed to climate disasters are profound and multifaceted. A study by Tosam and Mbih (Reference Tosam and Mbih2015) highlighted the association between climate change awareness, government inaction, and negative psychological outcomes among young people in Africa. The psychological impacts of global climate change, including anxiety and distress, further exacerbate the mental health challenges faced by young people in the context of climate disasters (Atwoli et al., Reference Atwoli, Muhia and Merali2022). Extreme weather events resulting from climate change have been shown to affect the mode and behaviour of young people and potentially lead to long-term psychological effects (Mutua et al., Reference Mutua, Kauti, Mwangangi and Nzilani2023). Also, concerns about climate change have been linked to distress in the general population, with certain individuals being more vulnerable to psychological distress (Atwoli et al., Reference Atwoli, Muhia and Merali2022). Schwartz et al. (Reference Schwartz, Benoit, Clayton, Parnes, Swenson and Lowe2023) studied climate change anxiety and its impact on mental health and identified environmental activism as a potential buffer against climate-related psychological distress. The heavy psychological burden imposed on young people by climate-related disasters and the anticipation of future challenges has been recognised, thus necessitating interventions to support their mental well-being (Mugeere et al., Reference Mugeere, Barford and Magimbi2021).
The challenges in providing mental health support to young people in Africa exposed to climate disasters are multifaceted and require tailored interventions. Africa faces a critical shortage of mental health professionals, thereby exacerbating the inadequacy of mental health services for young individuals with common mental health disorders (Mutero et al., Reference Mutero, Mindu, Cele, Manyangadze and Chimbari2022). Limited knowledge, which has resulted in misdiagnosis, stigma, and insufficient interventions for addressing mental health issues among young people in Africa, further compounds the challenge (Jumbe et al., Reference Jumbe, Nyali, Simbeye, Zakeyu, Motshewa and Pulapa2022). The design of mental healthcare systems in many African countries is often inadequate to meet the unique developmental and cultural needs of young people, hindering access to appropriate support (Ndetei et al., Reference Ndetei, Mutiso, Musyimi, Alietsi, Kameti, Bhugra, Moussaoui, Craig, Bhugra, Moussaoui and Craig2022). Structural barriers such as practical challenges in accessing and engaging with mental health services, present significant obstacles for trauma-exposed young people seeking mental health care (Ellinghaus et al., Reference Ellinghaus, Truss, Liao Siling, Phillips, Eastwood, Medrano and Bendall2021). Moreover, the prevalence of mental health disorders among young people is on the rise, necessitating urgent attention to address mental health needs in this population (Ravenna and Cleaver, Reference Ravenna and Cleaver2016).
Addressing the challenges to providing mental health support to young people impacted by climate-induced disasters
Integrating mental health support into disaster preparedness and response efforts is important. A study by James et al. (Reference James, Welton-Mitchell, Noel and James2020) showed that interventions teaching coping skills can enhance functioning, reduce hopelessness, and improve participants’ ability to engage with disaster preparedness content. Additionally, an integrated approach to mental health and disaster preparedness, focusing on community participation and social support, has been linked to improved mental health outcomes in adults, which can also have the same impact on young people (James et al., Reference James, Welton-Mitchell, Noel and James2020). So, addressing the psychological impacts of climate change and disasters involves fostering resilience among young people. This can be achieved through community-based interventions that promote social involvement and provide psychosocial support (Gislason et al., Reference Gislason, Kennedy and Witham2021). Involving young people in mental health literacy programmes and equipping them with coping strategies can enhance their resilience to climate-induced stressors (Elkington et al., Reference Elkington, Robbins, Bauermeister, Abrams, McKay and Mellins2011). Interventions should take into account the psychological effects of disasters on young people, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Therefore, providing mental health services that address these specific needs, including reducing victimisation and enhancing community participation, can lead to improved mental health outcomes (Paceley et al., Reference Paceley, Goffnett and Gandy-Guedes2017). Additionally, interventions focusing on reducing distress, enhancing readiness for participation, and safeguarding privacy are crucial for engaging young people in mental health support programmes (Campbell et al., Reference Campbell, Lovas, Withers and Peacock2020). By implementing a combination of community-based interventions, mental health literacy programmes, and tailored mental health services, stakeholders can strive to overcome the challenges in providing mental health support to young people affected by climate-induced disasters in Africa. These efforts should aim to build resilience, address specific psychological impacts, and promote community engagement to support the mental well-being of young people facing climate-related challenges.
Recommendations
To comprehensively address the mental health needs of young people in Africa impacted by climate-induced disasters, several recommendations can be proposed. First, it is crucial to prioritise the integration of mental health education and awareness programmes into school curricula and community initiatives to enhance mental health literacy, promote social cohesion, and engage youth in mental health support initiatives to build resilience and enhance coping mechanisms. Additionally, establishing youth-friendly mental health services that are accessible, culturally sensitive, and tailored to the unique needs of young people can improve mental health outcomes. Utilising telehealth services in hard-to-reach communities will also be helpful. Collaborating with local communities, traditional healers, and youth organisations to destigmatise mental health issues and provide psychosocial support is essential. Investing in training programmes to increase the number of mental health professionals, particularly in underserved areas, and incorporating mental health components into disaster preparedness and response plans can strengthen the mental health support system for young people in Africa facing the psychological impacts of climate disasters. Furthermore, investing in the collection of local data on trauma, early screening and culturally appropriate assessment tools will further guide the development of multi-pronged interventions addressing key issues like anxiety, depression and post-traumatic distress. With concerted efforts to make services accessible even in remote areas through community health systems, the mental well-being of African children and adolescents faced with intensifying climate disruptions can be better protected.
Conclusion
Addressing the challenges in providing mental healthcare to at-risk youth requires holistic, multi-pronged interventions. Promising avenues to build resilience and strengthen provision of care identified from recent studies include integrating psychosocial support into disaster management, community resilience programmes and specialised youth services. However, more research is needed to fully understand context-specific needs and effects across Africa. If left unaddressed, the mental health consequences of climate hazards on developing young minds risk undermining long-term well-being and stability in Africa. It is therefore imperative to prioritise youth-centric policy and programming responses. Mainstreaming mental health education, establishing accessible services, and collaborating closely with local partners hold potential to better shield African children and adolescents from the profound psychological toll of our changing climate. A healthier generation equipped to face environmental realities will be key to overcoming adversities and securing a prosperous, sustainable future for communities and the continent as climatic disruptions intensify. Robust, urgent and coordinated action across sectors is warranted.
Open peer review
To view the open peer review materials for this article, please visit http://doi.org/10.1017/gmh.2024.77.
Data availability statement
Data sharing does not apply to this article as no datasets were analysed.
Author contribution
This manuscript was conceptualised by U.U.A. I.K.J. and S.C.E. assisted in drafting the manuscript. All the authors read and approved the final manuscript and accepted responsibility for the decision to submit it for publication.
Financial support
This manuscript received no financial support from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors in the writing of this paper.
Competing interest
There is no conflict of interest to declare.
Open access
Comments
Dear Editor,
I am writing to submit our manuscript titled “Climate-Induced Disasters, Psychological Effects on Young People in Africa and the Challenges in Providing Mental Health Support” for your consideration for publication in Cambridge Prisms: Global Mental Health.
This study examines the profound psychological impacts of climate-related disasters like droughts, floods and extreme weather events on young people in Africa. It explores how climate stresses compound existing societal issues for young people’s mental health and well-being. The paper also discusses challenges in providing adequate youth-focused mental healthcare in Africa given limited resources and infrastructure constraints.
This manuscript proposes integrated, multi-stakeholder solutions centred on disaster response, community resilience programs and specialised youth services. Key recommendations involve prioritizing mental health education, establishing accessible services and collaborating with local partners. The overall aim is to comprehensively address African youth mental health needs through holistic approaches building coping skills.
We believe this topic is timely and highly relevant given the intensifying effect of climate crisis on the mental health of young people in Africa. This study synthesizes up-to-date literature on this important yet under-researched issue. It offers practical solutions to support young people’s mental wellness in climate-changing contexts. We hope the manuscript provides useful insights for your readership interested in global mental health.
All authors have approved the submission of this manuscript and have no conflicts of interest to declare. We confirm that this work has not been published elsewhere and is not under consideration by another journal. Please let me know if you need any additional information. We appreciate your time and consideration for publishing this work.
Thank you for your attention. I look forward to hearing back from you.
Yours sincerely,
Usoro Udousoro Akpan