We’re proud to announce the release of a new policy brief led by Working Group 4 of the COST Action CliMent – Climate change impacts on mental health in Europe.
Authored by Sanae Okamoto Robert Oakes and Nidhi Nagabhatla this policy brief explores the complex and urgent connections between climate-induced displacement and mental health outcomes. Special thanks to all contributors who shaped this important work.
📄 Abstract
Climate-related events increasingly displace communities, exposing vulnerable populations to severe mental health risks such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The brief outlines the diverse psychological burdens faced by displaced populations and calls for culturally sensitive, inclusive, and proactive mental health responses.
🔑 Key Takeaways
Displacement and Mental Health: Involuntary mobility is strongly associated with psychological distress, especially among children and adolescents.
Double Stigma: Mental health stigma within both migrant and host communities can exacerbate social isolation and untreated mental illness.
Access Barriers: Displaced populations often face structural, financial, and cultural barriers to accessing adequate mental health services.
Empowering Voices: Integrating migrant voices into policy and planning enhances agency and ensures people-centered, culturally attuned programs.
AI-based Storytelling: Harnessing AI to craft compelling narratives can raise awareness, drive empathy, and promote action on climate-related migration.
Policy Recommendations include promoting inclusive mental health services, enabling adaptive mobility, fostering social reintegration, and using digital tools to amplify displaced voices.
This publication was supported by COST Action CA23113 CliMent, with gratitude to all authors and contributors for driving forward this vital conversation.
🔗 Read the full brief here.
