A systematic review of mental health and climate change in the Philippines

The Philippines are at the forefront of climate change impacts, including those related to health and well-being, but information on mental health and well-being are typically underreported. To help address this research lacuna, we conducted a systematic literature review. We aimed to provide an overview of current research knowledge and research gaps regarding the impacts of climate change outcomes on Filipinos’ mental health and well-being. Consulting 8 databases, we identified 951 records. The final analysis included 32 studies: 16 quantitative, 11 qualitative, 2 longitudinal, 2 experimental, and 1 published report. A narrative synthesis has been performed to synthesize the findings from included studies. Studies were presented in four sections: 1) Risks to mental health following a natural disaster, 2) Determinants of post-traumatic stress disorder risks, 3) Resilience and post-traumatic growth following natural disasters, and 4) Personal experiences and other mental health outcomes. Reviewed data show that climate change outcomes strongly and negatively impact Filippino’s mental health and well-being. Climate change outcomes also, negatively affect mental health through indirect (e.g., sleep disorders) and long-term pathways for example by being exposed to stressors such as migration, conflict, and violence. A set of coping strategies was identified which include banding together, mobilizing health experts, and expanding the local relationships with health workers. Future prospective studies should assess the effects of rising sea levels and vector-borne diseases among frontline communities. More interventional studies assessing preventive interventions and health promotion initiatives should be carried out to mitigate mental health disorders and improve well-being, thus contributing to improved health outcomes.