The link between our physical and mental health and climate change explored in a new report prepared by a UNB researcher for the Conservation Council.
Dr. Louise Comeau says they created the Healthy Climate, Healthy New Brunswickers report to open people’s minds to the mental health effects of climate change.
Extreme weather events like flooding or an ice storm where people may lose cherished items, become displaced and suffer financial hardship can cause stress and anxiety long after the event ends.
Dr. Comeau says researchers have found higher incidents of domestic violence resulting from these events because men and women react differently.
The report also finds ticks are present in southern New Brunswick and moving north aided by an increase in the number of frost-free days in the winter and spring.
27 cases of Lyme disease were reported to public health in 2017, compared to 8 in 2016.
“We know that hotter days can increase smog and we also know hotter temperatures can increase pollen and that is a real issue for asthmatics and those who suffer with allergies,” Comeau said.
Dr. Comeau says with this report they want the medical community to look at climate change at more than a technology or infrastructure issue.
“But as a public health issue that requires doctors and nurses and social workers and public health officers to accommodate the effects climate change will have on the wellbeing of the patients and clients.” Dr. Comeau said.
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