Impacts of a Warming Planet

https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/dtac-dialogue-vol-19-issue-3.pdf?utm_source=SAMHSA&utm_campaign=c4f7159b6f-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_06_04_04_55&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-c4f7159b6f-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D As Earth’s temperatures grow warmer and extreme weather events more common, we are seeing a ripple effect beyond just physical health and the environment. A critical concern is the link between climate and behavioral health, most notably through the increased frequency and impact of climate-related disasters. Disaster behavioral health professionals can help communities cope with unpredictable climate challenges and build resilience. This issue of The Dialogue from the SAMHSA Disaster Technical Assistance Center (DTAC) highlights various community responses to the growing impacts of climate on disaster behavioral health. It features best practices and information from the field to support the development and promotion of mitigation and community resilience strategies. Do you have experience with climate and its impacts on disaster behavioral health? Other community members can learn from your knowledge and experience. We encourage you to contact us at dtac@samhsa.hhs.gov to share your stories and lessons learned. Issue Highlights Climate-informed Disaster Behavioral Health Response: Preparing for the Challenges Ahead This article explores the immediate and long-term impacts of climate change on disaster behavioral health to provide responders with important information to guide their current and future work. Reinforcing the need for climate-informed disaster behavioral health care, it spotlights effective ways to address climate concerns as part of disaster planning. Climate-ready Communities: Building Resilience and Hope This infographic shows how climate affects health, its impact on various populations, and steps that communities and individuals can take to foster hope and resilience. The infographic is designed to be printed, posted, and shared with colleagues and other members of your community. Climate Change and Youth: Fostering Resilience in New Generations In this article, Dr. Susan Clayton reviews the effects of climate-related crises on children and youth. A primary author of the American Psychological Association and ecoAmerica’s 2023 report, Mental Health and Our Changing Climate: Children and Youth, Dr. Clayton highlights the perspectives and experiences of youth to build greater resilience in younger communities. Disaster Behavioral Health in an Era of Climate Change This edition of The Dialogue from the SAMHSA Disaster Technical Assistance Center (DTAC) features articles on how to cope with climate change and its potential effects on behavioral health, as well as supporting individuals and communities in coping and building resilience. Articles are from leaders and experts in the fields of disaster behavioral health and disaster response. https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/dtac-dialogue-vol-17-issue-3.pdf?utm_source=SAMHSA&utm_campaign=c4f7159b6f-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2024_06_04_04_55&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-c4f7159b6f-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D