Climate change and mental health in the Philippines

BJPsych Int. 2023 May;20(2):44-46. doi: 10.1192/bji.2022.31.

Abstract

The mental health repercussions of the climate crisis are observed annually in the Philippines, one of the world's most climate-vulnerable countries. This paper explores these repercussions by examining the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan. It shows that mental health problems persisted beyond the typhoon's immediate aftermath among a large number of survivors. Since the mental health system was fragile, the affected community improved their mental health services through the help of local and international non-governmental organisations. Nonetheless, several challenges must be addressed as the country faces the climate crisis.

Keywords: Climate change; Philippines; Super Typhoon Yolanda; Typhoon Haiyan; mental health.

Publication types

  • Review