Extreme weather events linked to poor mental health

People with homes damaged by extreme weather events are more likely to experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety even when the damage is relatively minor and does not force them to leave their homes, a new study suggests.

The study found that the risk to mental health associated with experiencing weather-damage to your home is similar to the risk to mental health associated with living in a disadvantaged area. People with weather-damaged homes are more likely to experience poor mental health even when the damage is relatively minor and does not force them to leave their homes, the study suggests.

The lead author of the study added: "With extreme weather events on the rise due to climate change, environmental and health policies need to be brought much more closely together. This means recognising that flood protection policies are also health protection policies and that better protecting communities from floods is also an investment in protecting their mental health."

Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/r.../09/190905080114.htm