Letters | Mind the mental health impacts of climate and economic upheavals
Readers discuss a society-wide view of mental health, and tree care in Hong Kong
Every year, World Mental Health Day urges us to reflect on how societies prioritise well-being. This year’s theme – mental health in catastrophes and emergencies – reminds us that crises, whether natural disasters, wars, pandemics or humanitarian emergencies, demand urgent attention not only to physical needs but also to psychological recovery. Personal catastrophes such as bereavement, illness or career upheaval also shape the trajectory of a person’s life and must be recognised as part of this broader picture.
Although memories of the Covid-19 pandemic years are becoming more distant, their psychological shadow lingers – especially for young people. Prolonged social isolation, disrupted development and amplified exposure to social media have left many struggling with anxiety and depressive symptoms.
The global economic downturn following the pandemic, including financial insecurity, ballooning debt and unemployment, continues to strain mental health.
Research reveals that unemployed individuals face an increased risk of mental illness. Families weighed down by debt endure chronic stress and conflict, while job loss undermines self-worth and community ties. These economic hardships do not simply reduce resilience; they are strongly associated with rising depression and substance misuse and destabilise entire social systems.