As the global climate is changing with the threat of Global Warming, mental health problems are on the rise as well. We clearly understand that the climate plays a vital role in determining our physical and mental well-being in a particular geographical region.

In recent years, India has witnessed a growing phenomenon of climate-induced migration, particularly from rural to urban areas, driven by environmental degradation, natural disasters, and agricultural distress. This migration not only disrupts livelihoods and social structures but also has profound implications for the mental health and well-being of affected individuals and communities.

The real questions that we are required to have look at the relation between Rise of Temperature with Mental health problems.

· What is the link between climate and mental health?

· How does climate change affect human physical and mental health?

· What climate is best for mental health?

· How does migration affect mental health?

Let’s have a deep look at this subject.

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What Is the Difference Between Climate and Weather?

Weather refers to day-to-day temperature, precipitation, and other atmospheric conditions, whereas climate is the term for the averaging of atmospheric conditions over longer periods of time. When used without qualification, “weather” is generally understood to mean the weather of Earth.

What Is the Climate of India?

The country is broadly categorised into five primary climatic regions: tropical, arid, semi-arid, temperate, and alpine. The tropical region dominates the majority of India, characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall, particularly along the western and eastern coastal areas.

The tropical region dominates the majority of India, characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall, particularly along the western and eastern coastal areas. The arid and semi-arid regions, found in parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat, experience low precipitation and scorching temperatures, resulting in arid desert conditions.

The temperate climate zone, prevalent in northern India, exhibits moderate temperatures and distinct seasonal variations, while the alpine region, encompassing the Himalayan belt, features cold temperatures and heavy snowfall. Understanding the diverse climatic regions of India is crucial for implementing region-specific agricultural strategies, managing water resources, and preserving the country’s rich biodiversity.

Koppen’s Classification of The Indian Climate

Koeppen based his scheme of Climatic classification on monthly values of temperature and precipitation. India’s climate is divided into the following climatic regions:

1. Monsoon type with short dry season (Amw): the western coastal region south of Goa experiences this type of climate.

2. Monsoon type with dry season in summers (AS): the region of this type of climate extends along the Coromandel coast.

3. Tropical Savanna type (Aw): almost the entire peninsular region except for some coastal parts experience this type of climate.

4. Semi-arid steppe climate (BShw): this climatic region includes the interior parts of the peninsular plateau and some parts of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir.

5. Hot desert type (BWhw): this type of climate is found only in the western part of Rajasthan.

6. Monsoon type with dry winters (Cwg): Largely Northern plains of India experiences this type of climate.

7. Cold-humid winter type with short summer (Dfc): this climate is characterized by a short summer season. This region covers the north-eastern parts of India.

8. Polar type (E): This type of climate is experienced in Jammu & Kashmir and the neighbouring mountain ranges.

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How Does Climate Affect Our Health?

I explained the basic geographical concepts to give you an overview of the climatic conditions across the country. It was indeed necessary. Here’s an overview of how climate affects these aspects:

1. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can impair cognitive function. Heatwaves, for instance, have been linked to decreased cognitive performance, including memory, attention, and decision-making. Cold weather can also affect cognitive abilities, as the body expends more energy to maintain its core temperature, potentially leading to fatigue and decreased mental sharpness

Ex: In May 2015, India experienced one of its deadliest heatwaves on record, with temperatures soaring above 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) in many parts of the country. The states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana were particularly hard-hit, with thousands of deaths reported due to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration.

2. Climate can influence mood and emotional well-being. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a well-known example, where reduced sunlight during the winter months can lead to symptoms of depression in susceptible individuals. Conversely, excessive heat can also exacerbate irritability and aggression in some people.

Ex: The northern states like Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand. In these regions, the winter months can be characterized by shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and overcast skies, which may contribute to feelings of low mood, lethargy, and social withdrawal in susceptible individuals.

I.e., For someone living in a city like Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir might experience symptoms of SAD during the winter months when the days are shorter, and there is less sunlight. They may find it challenging to get out of bed in the morning, experience a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, and struggle with feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

3. Changes in temperature and daylight can disrupt sleep patterns, which in turn affect cognitive function, mood, and overall health. For example, warmer temperatures can interfere with the body’s ability to enter the deeper stages of sleep, leading to poorer sleep quality and daytime drowsiness.

Ex: In a metropolitan city like Mumbai, which experiences hot and humid weather for a significant part of the year. On hot summers, people find it difficult to have deep sleep due to the hot weather combined with higher humidity. Poor sleep quality leads to feelings of drowsiness and sluggishness at work on the next day for Mumbaikars.

4. Climate-related factors such as air pollution, pollen levels, and extreme weather events can impact physical health, which in turn affects brain function and behavior. For example, exposure to air pollution has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Ex: Consider Delhi, one of the most polluted cities in the world. Delhi’s air quality often reaches hazardous levels, especially during the winter months when crop burning in neighbouring states and fireworks during festivals exacerbate pollution levels. Exposure to high levels of air pollution during commutes and while at work makes Delhiites sick. On days when pollution levels are particularly severe, people experience symptoms such as headaches, eye irritation, and difficulty breathing. Over time, many Delhiites are struggling to concentrate at work, experiencing frequent mood swings, and feeling increasingly hopeless about the situation. Their social life also suffers as they become more withdrawn and avoid outdoor activities to minimise exposure to pollution.

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What Are the Common Mental Health Issues in India Dues to Climate?

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Some of the common mental health issues in India that may be influenced by climate-related factors include:

Depression and Anxiety: 

Changes in climate patterns, such as extreme heat, heavy rainfall, and flooding, can lead to feelings of uncertainty, stress, and anxiety. These feelings may be particularly acute among individuals who are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as farmers whose livelihoods depend on agriculture.

Suicide: 

India has one of the highest rates of suicide in the world, and climate-related factors can contribute to suicidal ideation and behavior. For example, agricultural distress resulting from droughts or floods can lead to financial difficulties and loss of livelihood, increasing the risk of suicide among farmers.

Heat-related Mental Health Issues: 

India experiences extreme heat events, particularly during the summer months, which can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and dehydration. These conditions can also impact mental health, contributing to irritability, mood disturbances, and cognitive impairment.

Trauma and PTSD: 

India is vulnerable to various natural disasters, including cyclones, floods, earthquakes, and landslides. Exposure to these traumatic events can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related mental health issues, particularly among those who experience loss of life, displacement, and property damage.

Respiratory and Mental Health: 

Air pollution is a significant issue in many Indian cities, particularly during periods of high vehicular traffic and industrial activity. Poor air quality can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, which in turn can impact mental health and well-being.

Vector-borne Diseases and Anxiety: 

Climate change can influence the spread of vector-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria, and chikungunya. The fear of contracting these diseases, especially during outbreaks, can contribute to anxiety and stress among the population.

Water Scarcity and Mental Health: 

In regions experiencing water scarcity, such as parts of Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, individuals may face mental health challenges related to the stress of accessing clean water for drinking, sanitation, and agricultural purposes.

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Enlightening Society Is a Challenge, but Vital

There is a critical need for integrated support services that address the mental health needs of climate migrants throughout the migration process, from pre-departure to resettlement and integration. This includes psychosocial support, counselling, and mental health awareness programs tailored to the unique experiences and challenges faced by migrants.

Community-based approaches that engage local stakeholders, including community leaders, healthcare providers, and grassroots organizations, can help build resilience, promote social support, and address mental health stigma within both sending and receiving communities.

By recognising and addressing the complex interplay between climate change, migration, and mental health, India can better support the needs of vulnerable populations and build more inclusive and resilient communities in the face of environmental challenges.In fact, it is our duty to protect our population from Climate Changes and its risks, which threaten their health.