Mental Health and Our Changing Climate, 2021 Edition

The American Psychological Association and ecoAmerica are pleased to present Mental Health and Our Changing Climate, a report that chronicles the impacts of climate change on Americans’ mental health and psychological well-being and provides guidance and resources to act and advocate. The report builds on the celebrated 2017 edition to include the latest research and expanded sections on populations disproportionately impacted, climate anxiety, and a spectrum of solutions. Hear the major findings of this report from the authors and to preview the action steps for communities, individuals, practitioners, and policymakers: Watch Launch Video

“It is past time to focus attention on the far reaching toll climate change is already taking on our mental health, as the economic, political, environmental and health implications of climate change affect all of us.”

Mental Health And Our Changing Climate: Impacts, Inequities, Responses

America is facing one of the greatest opportunities for leadership in our history. We can bring forward ambitious, effective, and equitable climate solutions that support mental and physical health and well-being. Solutions are at hand, and a majority of Americans support action to ensure a healthy future for ourselves and our children. America has the wherewithal to lead our nation and the world to ensure that the social determinants of health — and mental health — are supported versus hindered by the state of our climate, communities, and natural places. 

The American Psychological Association and ecoAmerica are pleased to offer Mental Health and Our Changing Climate: Impacts, Inequities, Responses. This report is an update to the 2017 report, Mental Health and Our Changing Climate: Impacts, Implications, and Guidance. It shares the latest and best knowledge on the many ways that climate change impacts mental health individually and community-wide, how structural inequities cause certain populations to be impacted first and worst, and the spectrum of solutions available to build resilience, strengthen care, and inspire engagement for transformative progress. It is intended to further inform and empower health and medical professionals, community and elected leaders, and the public to understand and act on solutions to climate change that will support mental health and well-being. 

It is past time to focus attention on the far reaching toll climate change is already taking on our mental health, as the economic, political, environmental and health implications of climate change affect all of us. It is time to face feelings of helplessness, fatalism, and resignation that may be keeping us and our nation from properly addressing the core causes of climate change and bringing forth solutions. 

Now is the time to care for our mental health and our climate, and we can.

On behalf of the authors, the many professionals who contributed directly and indirectly to this work, and all those involved in expanding awareness, and action, thank you for taking the time to review and share this important resource. We invite your participation in efforts to prepare, protect, and heal — our mental health and our climate — and in the work of the American Psychological Association and ecoAmerica along these same goals. Read the report, HERE. And share on Social!

Additional Mental Health and Climate Resources

— Take a screenshot to share or archive the report QR code —