Thirteenth International Conference on Climate Change: Impacts & Responses

Abstract

Climate change is regarded as one of the biggest global health problems, and future projections suggest an unacceptably high and potentially catastrophic risk to human health. Climate change affects human health through a wide range of hazardous exposures, including extreme weather events, altered air quality, shifting patterns of infectious disease, as well as sea-level rise, ocean acidification, conflict, and migration. The role of climate change in driving mental health including emotional concerns is increasingly recognized yet understudied. In semi-arid Ghana, extreme climatic events have subjected farmers to different mental health experiences. Our study evaluates the impacts of climate change on mental health and subsequently draws inferences on the implication for food security in Ghana. Employing an Affective Style Emotional Regulation Approach to a survey of 200 households, we find that respondents are concealing their emotions in response to climate-induced challenges. Consequently, they are developing occupational stress, anxiety, a feeling of hopelessness, and depression. Food production goals are not achieved limiting food access, utilization, and stability for rural households. We recommend the capacity building of community mental health personnel to support mental adaptation. Also, public awareness building against stigmatization could help in the identification and treatment of mental health persons.