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Climate‐Related Psychological Distress: Exploring the Global Nexus of Climate Change and Mental Health

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  • Saqib Amin

Abstract

This study explores the complex and often overlooked connection between climate change and mental health, specifically examining how this relationship manifests across different income groups (high, middle, and low) from 1990 to 2020. A fixed‐effects model is used to analyze the impact of two key climate change indicators—annual surface temperature changes (TEMP) and greenhouse gas emissions—on a range of mental health outcomes, including mental disorders (MD), anxiety disorders (AD), depressive disorders (DD), bipolar disorder (BD), and schizophrenia (S). The findings reveal a statistically significant association between rising temperatures, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and declining mental health outcomes. While the negative effects of climate change on mental well‐being are observed across all countries, disproportionate impacts between income groups, suggesting that some populations are significantly more vulnerable than others. This study underscores the urgency of implementing comprehensive and equitable measures to mitigate climate change and protect mental health globally.

Suggested Citation

  • Saqib Amin, 2025. "Climate‐Related Psychological Distress: Exploring the Global Nexus of Climate Change and Mental Health," Sustainable Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 33(5), pages 6456-6474, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:sustdv:v:33:y:2025:i:5:p:6456-6474
    DOI: 10.1002/sd.3489
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    References listed on IDEAS

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