Environment

Climate change and mental health

Posted on: Tue 17 Jan 2023

Suicide is already among the leading causes of death worldwide. For people aged 15-55 years, it is among the top five causes of death. Worldwide nearly one million people die by suicide each year — more than all deaths from war and murder combined.

Higher global temperatures are expected to have detrimental effects on our natural environments and our physical health, but what will they do to our mental health?

New research from an international team of scientists suggests that one of the most tangible impacts may be an increase in suicide rates.

To examine this issue Barometer’s Des Lawrence speaks to Helen Berry,   Professor of Climate Change and Mental Health, University of Sydney                        

Climate change will increase deaths by suicide

Produced by Des Lawrence

Image: Oliver Dixon – Creative Commons Licence

Barometer

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