Sea-level rise and mental health among coastal communities

This cross-sectional study explores the impact of sea-level rise on mental health in Bangladesh's coastal communities. In 2021, during the pre-monsoon season, we surveyed 1,200 residents from regions with varying vulnerabilities to sea-level rise: high, moderate, and low. The survey assessed psychological distress, depression, anxiety, stress, environmental stressors, resource loss, and demographic factors. Results showed significantly higher mental health issues in the high-vulnerability areas. Resource loss was a key mediator linking environmental stressors to mental health outcomes. Additionally, demographic analysis revealed that older adults and women were disproportionately affected. These findings highlight the critical need for targeted mental health interventions in areas increasingly threatened by sea-level rise.