A Breakup with Mother Nature: The Tangled Issues We Face

The Downward Spiral of Our Relationship with the Environment

It seems we are in the nerve-racking beginning phases of cutting ties with our greatest love affair – the environment. Our reckless actions and ignorance have led to this unfortunate clash. Once embodied in the tangled issues of a global pandemic, the COVID-19 lockdown showed signs of environmental improvement due to decreased human activity. But, that brief respite is over, and our climate and environmental issues continue to accelerate.

Digging Into the Bio-Psycho-Social-Eco Model

Three years ago, I proposed an expansion of our understanding to embrace a comprehensive model, engaging the biological, psychological, social, and ecological factors. The aim was to take a closer look at the intricate pieces and see the bigger picture. Sadly, with the rollback of various environmental protections by the government, our current trajectory suggests a bumpy path ahead.

Psychiatry and Environmental Activism: The Intersection

Now in my retirement, I continue using my background as a psychiatrist to dig into tricky parts of the climate crisis. Serving as a pro bono community psychiatrist, I mix an intimate understanding of human behavior with an advocacy for climate stability, mental health, and against xenophobia. My views are rooted in a firm belief in advocating for the well-being of all – including Mother Earth.

Politics and Climate Instability: Why We Should Be Scared

Amid the current political climate, it feels like we are on the verge of a breakup with our environment. This political myopia is scary and advocates for a stance that exacerbates climate issues, rather than resolve them. Now more than ever, we need to dig into solutions, rather than deepen the wound.

Climate Change and Mental Health: Unseen Casualties

One of the often overlooked pieces in the climate change puzzle is its impact on mental health. The World Health Organization predicted a significant surge in mental health disorders potentially triggered by climate catastrophes, displacements, and other induced stresses. This is a territory loaded with concerns that demand our attention.

Embodying the Nitty-Gritty of Climate Change

I have continued my nerve-racking journey into climate change and mental health in psychiatry, offering weekly videos and columns discussing the underlying issues and proposing solutions by working through the small differences and hidden complexities. This journey has led me to be the recipient of several prestigious awards for my work and commitment in this field.

Conclusion

Tackling climate change is an intimidating task and overcoming its damaging effects on mental health is even more daunting. However, the essential thing for us to remember is that it’s not too late. We still have time to steer through the tangled issues, assist those affected, and help prevent further mental health crises arising from our confusing bits of handling this great love affair with our environment. As a society, we need to remember the super-important role of managing our way through climate change and make earnest efforts to reconcile our relationship with Mother Earth.

Originally Post From https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/we-are-in-divorce-proceedings-with-the-earth

* This article was originally published here