Climate Change, Saline Dust Storms, and Psychological Health in the MENA Region: Challenges and a Resolving Approach

Climate change presently constitutes one of the most serious global challenges to the environment, human well-being, and sustainable development. In fact, the specific impacts of the issue on water bodies in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region involve exposing large areas covered by saline sediments. These regions are disturbed by strong winds, and the result is widespread air pollution, thus posing serious health threats to the people in those areas. A result of affecting the health and stability in the region, both physically and psychologically, is caused by this. Other than the direct health ramifications of climate change, human rights, social justice, and economic stability can really be threatened. In fact, it is the vulnerable populations that bear the biggest risk, especially those with a previous mental health diagnosis. These environmental changes exacerbate any stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or suicidal ideation they may have previously experienced. With these challenges in view, preemptive measures in mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change become indispensable. The protection of affected individuals and communities has to be one of the priorities. The focus of this chapter is on an overview of the causes and effects of climate change in the MENA region, discussing opportunities and challenges connected with adaptation, and outlining strategies to reduce the psychological impacts of climate change.