5 Reasons Why Climate Change Increases Alcohol And Other Substance-Use

Climate Change And Substance Use: Weather changes have a significant impact on our overall health and well-being. From seasonal illnesses to increased substance use, its adverse effects go beyond one’s imagination. Climate changes not only affect our physical health but have subsequent effects on one’s mental health as well. While some people take effective measures to deal with this, for some, climate change can be overwhelming. These overwhelming feelings can make one refuge in consuming alcohol, tobacco, over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Here are five ways in which climate change can alleviate the risk of alcohol consumption and other substance use.

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Climate Change And Increased Substance Use

1. Mental Health

The most obvious repercussion of climate change is deteriorating mental health. The worsening mental health of an individual increases the chances of substance use. Climate changes such as extreme heat or cold can cause calamities that can affect our mental health to a great extent, in turn escalating alcohol consumption and other substance use.

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2. Increased Feelings Of Worry

Extreme climate changes can increase the feelings of worry among people about what can happen and how one can deal with extreme weather. Studies show that climate change can generate extensive emotional responses including feelings of anxiety, worry, fear, anger, grief and helplessness.

3. Physical Injuries

Physical injuries can increase the chances of substance use (Image Credits: Canva)

During extreme climate changes and weather conditions such as excessive rainfall, earthquakes, floods, burns and others can cause physical injuries that may increase the risk of harmful substance use. It is certainly because physical injuries increase psychological stress leading to escalating feelings of hopelessness, loneliness and depression. To cope with such feelings, people usually rely on substance use such as alcohol, drugs, medications and others.

4. Daily Life Changes

Extreme climatic conditions can lead to catastrophic events that can change one’s life in a second. For example, if a flood hits, you may be injured, become homeless, lose your loved ones, and cause disruptions in your behaviour. Similarly, excessive hot temperatures can cause hurdles in one’s sleep cycle, leading to stress, low academic performance and violent behaviour.

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5. Destabilises Communities

Another disadvantage of climate change can be the destabilisation of communities. Natural calamities caused by climatic conditions cause infrastructure damage, agricultural loss, homelessness, unemployment, and displacement which may lead to acute or chronic stress, further increasing substance use.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)