Extreme weather events, climate change attitudes, and preparedness on self-rated health and depressive symptoms

Abstract

Introduction

This study examined the potential health consequences associated with exposure to extreme weather events, climate change attitudes, and extreme weather preparedness. Specifically, drawing from a statewide sample of adults residing in Arkansas, we investigate whether and how climate attitudes, exposure, and preparedness shape depressive symptoms and self-rated health.

Methods

To examine relationships between climate change attitudes, exposure, and preparedness on self-rated health and depressive symptoms, we utilized a series of multivariable regression models. For self-rated health, we used logistic regression, while for depressive symptoms, we used Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression.

Results

Results from our regression models demonstrate that when accounting for all three climate change-related mechanisms, exposure and preparedness play a significant role in both self-rated health and depressive symptoms. Specifically, when accounting for all three mechanisms, we find respondents who were exposed to more extreme weather events in the last five years and those who perceived themselves to be less prepared to deal with weather disasters and extreme weather events reported more depressive symptoms and worse self-rated health.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that exposure to extreme weather and perceived preparedness, rather than general attitudes toward climate change, may be key contributors to disparities in health.