Eco-psychiatry and Environmental Conservation: Study from Sundarban Delta, India.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Ecology

Background:

• Human-animal conflicts pose a significant threat to communities adjacent to protected areas like the Sundarban Reserve Forest (SRF).
• These conflicts are often linked to livelihood activities and can have severe psychosocial and mental health consequences for affected populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the extent and impact of human-animal conflicts on psychosocial stressors and mental health.
• To assess the mental health burden and socio-economic impact on individuals and families affected by wildlife attacks in the Sundarban region.

Main Methods:

• Household surveys to document human-animal conflict incidents.
• Focus Group Discussions, In-depth Interviews, and Case studies for qualitative data.
• Community mental health clinics and participatory observation to assess mental health outcomes.

Main Results:

• Over 16,999 people surveyed; 32.8% rely on forest-based occupations.
• 111 victims of animal attacks (Tiger, Crocodile, Shark) in 15 years, with a 73.9% mortality rate, primarily during livelihood activities.
• Widows of victims faced severe health issues (51%), economic stress (40.9%), and mental health problems including depression, PTSD, and suicide attempts (11.2% self-harm history).

Conclusions:

• Improving quality of life through income generation and sustainable bio-forest management is crucial.
• These interventions are key to safeguarding the lives of the deltaic population and preserving the Sundarban mangrove environment.