Becoming With the Blitz: Turning and Returning as Fuel for Climate Therapy

Area of Science:

• Environmental Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Social Psychiatry

Background:

• Climate change and social crises present complex challenges.
• These crises necessitate new roles and responsibilities for mental health professionals.
• Existing mental health frameworks may be insufficient to address these evolving threats.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the duties of mental health professionals in the context of climate change and social crises.
• To explore the unique skills and attitudes required to confront these realities.
• To examine the potential for psychological resilience and social transformation amidst trauma.

Main Methods:

• The study employs a narrative approach, drawing on personal experience to illustrate key concepts.
• It analyzes the psychological impact of historical trauma and its transgenerational transmission.
• It discusses the importance of grieving and identity shifts in adapting to future uncertainties.

Main Results:

• Mental health professionals are uniquely positioned to "turn toward" difficult realities.
• Specific attention must be paid to the mental health impacts of heat and disasters.
• Metabolizing trauma is crucial for mitigating transgenerational effects.

Conclusions:

• Mental health professionals have a duty to prepare for and address the psychological consequences of climate change.
• Fostering resilience and facilitating social transformation are key roles.
• Understanding the processes of grieving and identity shifts is essential for navigating existential threats.