…there are ways to find meaning – even in the most challenging times

ILLUSTRATIONS: IRINA PERJU

The past few years have been difficult for people the world over. The pandemic, the growing spectre of climate upheaval and adjustments in the geopolitical order have brought many unwanted changes and disruptions to everyday life.

These difficulties have also heralded feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, hopelessness and, for some, panic. The World Health Organisation said rates of anxiety and depression climbed by 25 per cent during the first year of the pandemic. Other studies have also found that rates of several mental health disorders appear to have increased during the pandemic. Similarly, climate anxiety is an increasingly well-recognised phenomenon.

Fundamentals for wellbeing

While some consider mental health and wellbeing to be static internal constructs, separate to the world in which people live, the reality is that mental health is heavily contingent on everyday happenings and social context. Basic things, such as family life, social support, stable housing and meaningful work, are important factors when establishing and maintaining mental health. Bigger social factors, such as political systems, climate safety, food (in)security and social welfare, also impact strongly on levels of stress and resilience and can influence the development of many forms of mental ill-health.