Unequal mental health impacts of extreme weather and climate events

Abstract

Extreme weather and climate-related disasters are increasing in frequency, posing significant risks to mental health, particularly among people with pre-existing mental health conditions. However, little is known about the extent of these impacts or how social determinants shape vulnerability. Here, using population-based longitudinal data from Australia collected over a decade, we examined the mental health effects of climate-related disasters among individuals with and without pre-existing nervous, emotional or mental health conditions. Psychological distress and risk of moderate-to-severe mental disorders were assessed using the Kessler scale. Regression models accounting for fixed effect..