In an era of escalating climate crises, the intersection of environmental devastation and mental health is more relevant than ever. As wildfires rage, floods devastate communities, and forests disappear, the connection between climate change and mental health is important. "Burning Minds" explores the bidirectional relationship between psychopathology and environmental crises—how climate disasters contribute to mental illness and, conversely, how certain disorders, such as pyromania, may play a role in ecological destruction.
This interdisciplinary course examines:
- The Psychological Toll of Climate Disasters: How exposure to wildfires, floods, and deforestation contributes to PTSD, anxiety, depression, and eco-grief.
- Climate-Induced Stress and Psychopathology: The role of chronic environmental stress in the onset and exacerbation of mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders.
- Mental Disorders That Influence Environmental Crises: A deep dive into conditions such as pyromania, compulsive fire-setting, and other behavioral disorders that may contribute to environmental destruction.
- The Role of Psychology in Climate Mitigation: Understanding how mental health professionals can intervene, educate, and advocate for sustainable solutions.
- Developing Resilient and Proactive Mental Health Professionals: Training students to recognize and address climate-related mental health issues in clinical practice, community interventions, and policy advocacy.
Designed for psychology students, this course offers a critical framework for understanding the complex interplay between psychopathology and the environment. By bridging psychopathology with climate science, "Burning Minds" not only explores the mental health consequences of environmental disasters but also challenges psychology students to take an active role in climate resilience and mitigation efforts.
🔥 Join us in uncovering the deep psychological connections between mental health and climate crises.
- Teacher: Ana Torres