Burrows, KateDenckla, ChristyHahn, JillSchiff, Jessica E.Okuzono, Sakurako S.Randriamady, HervetMita, CarolKubzansky, Laura D.Koenen, Karestan C.Lowe, Sarah R.2024-08-072024-01-15Burrows, Kate, Christy Denckla, Jill Hahn, Jessica E. Schiff, Sakurako S. Okuzono, Hervet Randriamady, Carol Mita et al. "A systematic review of the effects of chronic, slow-onset climate change on mental health." Nat. Mental Health 2, no. 2 (2024): 228-243. DOI: 10.1038/s44220-023-00170-52731-6076https://nrs.harvard.edu/URN-3:HUL.INSTREPOS:37379386The mental health effects of weather-related disasters are well characterized, yet less is known about the effect of chronic, slow-onset climate change. We systematically reviewed qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods studies (57 were included) that investigated the effects of slow-onset climate change on a range of mental health indicators. Droughts, changing temperatures over time and local perceptions of ecosystem changes were the most studied slow-onset conditions. Several quantitative studies noted adverse mental health outcomes associated with these exposures, including depression and anxiety symptoms, suicide and non-specific psychological distress. Qualitative studies further elucidated negative emotions related to chronic climate change, including worry, grief and frustration. However, some studies noted mixed or null findings. Results suggest a need for further research to identify causal pathways and mechanisms through which chronic changes in the climate may affect changes in mental health. Instead of focusing on trauma-based frameworks (as are commonly used in studies of acute disasters), this work should holistically consider individual, community and societal factors that shape the mental health consequences of slow-onset climate change.en-USJournal Article2024-08-0710.1038/s44220-023-00170-5