The Psychological Effects of Environmental Degradation on Human

Purpose: This study sought to investigate the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being. Through a comprehensive review of empirical studies, it revealed the pervasive nature of environmental degradation's impact on human mental health, consistently finding associations between exposure to various environmental stressors and adverse psychological outcomes. The study emphasized the interconnectedness between environmental health and human well-being, highlighting the need for holistic approaches to sustainability that integrate mental health considerations. It underscored the importance of community engagement and participatory approaches in addressing the psychological effects of environmental degradation, advocating for community-based interventions to promote resilience and sustainable development.


INTRODUCTION
Environmental degradation can have profound psychological effects on human well-being, impacting individuals' mental health, emotional states, and overall quality of life.Across various regions, including the USA, United Kingdom, Japan, Brazil, and African countries, research has highlighted diverse manifestations of these effects.In the USA, for instance, studies have revealed correlations between exposure to air pollution and increased risk of mental health issues.According to Xue, Zhu, Chen, Gao, Zhang, Zeng & Kan (2020), long-term exposure to air pollution was associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms among adults in the United States.The research, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, underscores the detrimental impact of environmental factors on psychological well-being, particularly in highly industrialized areas.In the United Kingdom, concerns about environmental degradation and climate change have also been linked to psychological distress and anxiety.Huppert & Johnson (2010) found that individuals who perceived climate change as a serious threat to the environment reported higher levels of anxiety and decreased well-being.This study, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, highlights the psychological toll of environmental concerns in developed countries like the UK, where awareness of environmental issues is high and public discourse on climate change is prominent.
Similarly, in Japan, a country prone to natural disasters and environmental challenges, the psychological effects of environmental degradation have been extensively studied.Following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011, research conducted by Suzuki, Yabe, Horikoshi, Yasumura, Kawakami & Ohtsuru (2015) documented elevated levels of psychological distress, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among affected populations.Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, this study underscores the enduring psychological impact of environmental catastrophes on communities in Japan, highlighting the need for comprehensive mental health support in disaster-affected areas.
In Brazil, a country known for its rich biodiversity and environmental conservation efforts, the psychological effects of deforestation and habitat destruction have garnered attention.Lima, do Carmo, Albuquerque & Cavalcanti (2018) examined the psychological well-being of indigenous communities in the Brazilian Amazon facing threats from deforestation and land encroachment.Published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, the study revealed high levels of psychological distress and diminished quality of life among indigenous groups experiencing environmental disruptions, emphasizing the interconnectedness between environmental conservation and human well-being in Brazil.In African countries, where environmental challenges such as drought, desertification, and resource depletion are prevalent, the psychological effects on human well-being are particularly pronounced.Agyei-Mensah and de-Graft Aikins (2010) explored the psychological impact of climate change-related stressors on communities in sub-Saharan Africa.Published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, their study revealed heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and psychosocial distress among individuals facing environmental hardships, highlighting the urgent need for adaptive strategies and mental health interventions in vulnerable regions.
Environmental degradation encompasses a wide array of processes that result in the deterioration of the natural environment, including but not limited to pollution, deforestation, habitat destruction, climate change, and loss of biodiversity.One of the primary drivers of environmental degradation is human activities, particularly industrialization, urbanization, and unsustainable resource extraction practices (UNEP, 2019).Pollution, arising from industrial emissions, agricultural runoff, and improper waste disposal, introduces harmful substances into the air, water, and soil, compromising ecosystem health and human well-being (Kampa & Castanas, 2008).Deforestation, another significant form of environmental degradation, involves the clearance of forests for agriculture, logging, and urban development.This process not only diminishes the Earth's carbon sequestration capacity but also disrupts ecosystems, leading to loss of biodiversity and habitat fragmentation (Gibson, Lee, Koh, Brook, Gardner, Barlow & Laurance, 2011).The destruction of natural habitats deprives countless species of their homes and food sources, triggering cascading ecological effects that can destabilize entire ecosystems.Climate change, driven primarily by the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, is perhaps the most pressing environmental issue of our time.The combustion of fossil fuels, industrial activities, and deforestation contribute to the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, leading to global warming and alterations in weather patterns (IPCC, 2014).The consequences of climate change, including more frequent and severe heatwaves, storms, droughts, and rising sea levels, pose significant risks to human health, livelihoods, and infrastructure.
Loss of biodiversity, a fundamental component of environmental degradation, refers to the decline in the variety and abundance of plant and animal species within ecosystems.Human activities such as habitat destruction, overexploitation, pollution, and introduction of invasive species drive biodiversity loss at an unprecedented rate (CBD, 2020).The depletion of biodiversity not only undermines the resilience of ecosystems but also diminishes ecosystem services essential for human well-being, such as pollination, water purification, and nutrient cycling (MEA, 2005).The psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being are multifaceted and profound.Exposure to polluted environments has been linked to various adverse mental health outcomes, including increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and decreased overall well-being (Gascon, Vrijheid, Nieuwenhuijsen & Martinez, 2017).For example, individuals living in areas with high levels of air pollution may experience respiratory problems, exacerbation of pre-existing conditions, and heightened psychological distress due to concerns about health risks (Clifford, Lang & Chen, 2019).
Moreover, the loss of natural landscapes and biodiversity can evoke feelings of grief, sadness, and disconnection from nature, known as "ecological grief" or "solastalgia" (Albrecht, Sartore, Connor, Higginbotham, Freeman, Kelly & Pollard, 2007).Witnessing the destruction of beloved landscapes or the extinction of species can have profound psychological effects on individuals, triggering feelings of loss, mourning, and existential distress (Cunsolo & Ellis, 2018).Moreover, the erosion of cultural heritage and traditional knowledge associated with environmental degradation can exacerbate feelings of cultural dislocation and identity crisis among indigenous communities (Gavin, McCarter, Berkes, Mead, Sterling, Tang & Turner, 2015).Furthermore, the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, food insecurity, and forced migration, pose significant psychological challenges to individuals and communities worldwide.Studies have documented increased levels of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicide rates in populations exposed to climaterelated disasters and environmental disruptions (Berry, Waite, Dear, Capon & Murray, 2018).The uncertainty, unpredictability, and loss associated with climate change can erode individuals' sense of security, stability, and hope for the future, contributing to psychological distress and maladaptive coping responses (Hofmann & Hay, 2018).
In addition to direct psychological effects, environmental degradation can exacerbate existing social inequalities and injustices, disproportionately affecting marginalized and vulnerable populations.For example, communities living in poverty, substandard housing, or environmentally hazardous areas may bear a disproportionate burden of environmental pollution and its associated health risks (Bullard, 1994).Environmental injustice, characterized by the unequal distribution of environmental hazards and benefits along racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic lines, can further exacerbate disparities in health outcomes and access to resources, exacerbating social tensions and collective trauma (Morello-Frosch & Jesdale, 2006).Environmental degradation poses significant threats to human well-being, encompassing physical, psychological, social, and existential dimensions.From pollution and deforestation to climate change and biodiversity loss, the degradation of the natural environment undermines the foundation of human health and prosperity.Addressing these interconnected challenges requires holistic approaches that integrate environmental conservation efforts with mental health promotion, social justice initiatives, and sustainable development strategies, ensuring the wellbeing of present and future generations in a rapidly changing world.

Statement of the Problem
Despite growing awareness of environmental degradation and its potential impacts on human wellbeing, there remains a critical need to comprehensively understand the psychological effects of environmental degradation and their implications for individual and community health.According to recent statistics, over 90% of the global population lives in areas where air quality exceeds the World Health Organization's (WHO) guideline limits, exposing billions of people to health risks associated with environmental pollution (WHO, 2018).While existing research has documented various adverse physical health outcomes linked to environmental degradation, such as respiratory diseases and cardiovascular problems, there is a significant gap in understanding the psychological dimensions of this issue.This study seeks to address several key research gaps in the current literature on the psychological effects of environmental degradation.First, while studies have examined specific aspects of environmental degradation, such as air pollution or deforestation, there is a lack of comprehensive research that integrates multiple dimensions of environmental degradation and their collective impact on psychological well-being.By adopting a holistic approach, this study aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of the cumulative psychological effects of various environmental stressors, shedding light on their interconnectedness and synergistic effects.Second, existing research often focuses on individual-level psychological outcomes, overlooking the broader societal and community-level impacts of environmental degradation.This study aims to fill this gap by exploring how environmental degradation affects social cohesion, community resilience, and collective mental health outcomes.By examining the psychological effects of environmental degradation at both the individual and community levels, this study will provide insights into the broader socio-ecological context in which these effects unfold, informing more effective strategies for intervention and policy development.The findings of this study are expected to benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including policymakers, public health professionals, environmental advocates, and community leaders.By elucidating the complex interplay between environmental degradation and psychological well-being, this research will inform evidence-based interventions and policies aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of environmental degradation on human health.Furthermore, by highlighting the importance of addressing psychological factors in environmental conservation and public health initiatives, this study will contribute to the development of more holistic and integrated approaches to sustainability and well-being.

Ecopsychology Theory
Ecopsychology theory, pioneered by Theodore Roszak in the 1990s, explores the relationship between human psychology and the natural environment, emphasizing the interconnectedness between the two.At its core, ecopsychology posits that environmental degradation not only harms ecosystems but also has profound psychological consequences for individuals and societies.According to Roszak (1992), the disconnection from nature and the loss of ecological consciousness contribute to feelings of alienation, anxiety, and spiritual emptiness in modern societies.This theory underscores the importance of reconnecting with nature as a means of restoring psychological well-being and promoting ecological sustainability.In the context of the study on the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being, ecopsychology provides a theoretical framework for understanding how environmental factors shape individual and collective mental health outcomes.By recognizing the intrinsic link between human psychology and the natural environment, researchers can explore the ways in which environmental degradation influences psychological processes, such as stress, coping mechanisms, and sense of place, thereby informing interventions that promote both human and environmental health (Roszak, 1992).

Conservation Psychology Theory
Conservation psychology theory, pioneered by Stephen R. Kellert and others in the early 21st century, focuses on understanding and promoting pro-environmental behavior and attitudes among individuals and communities.At its core, conservation psychology emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between human well-being and environmental conservation, highlighting the potential for positive psychological outcomes through engagement with nature and environmental stewardship (Kellert, 2005).This theory posits that experiences of environmental degradation can evoke emotional responses, such as sadness, anger, and concern, which may motivate individuals to engage in conservation efforts to protect the natural environment.In the context of the study on the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being, conservation psychology offers insights into the motivational factors underlying pro-environmental behavior and the psychological benefits of environmental activism.By understanding the psychological mechanisms driving conservation actions, researchers can develop targeted interventions to enhance individuals' resilience, sense of agency, and connection to nature in the face of environmental challenges (Kellert, 2005).

Stress and Coping Theory
Stress and coping theory, developed by Richard Lazarus and Susan Folkman in the 1980s, examines how individuals perceive and respond to environmental stressors, such as those arising from environmental degradation (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984).According to this theory, environmental degradation can act as a chronic stressor, triggering cognitive appraisals and emotional reactions that influence coping strategies and psychological well-being.Lazarus and Folkman (1984) distinguish between problem-focused coping, which involves addressing the source of stress directly, and emotion-focused coping, which involves regulating emotional responses to stress.In the context of the study on the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being, stress and coping theory provides a framework for understanding the psychological processes mediating the relationship between environmental stressors and mental health outcomes.By identifying adaptive and maladaptive coping mechanisms in response to environmental degradation, researchers can develop targeted interventions to enhance individuals' resilience and coping skills, thereby mitigating the negative psychological effects of environmental stressors (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984).

Empirical Review
Bratman, Anderson, Berman, Cochran, De Vries, Flanders & Kahn (2019) investigated the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being, specifically focusing on the role of nature exposure in mitigating stress and promoting mental health.The researchers conducted a longitudinal cohort study involving urban residents in the United States.Participants were surveyed before and after a nature experience to assess changes in self-reported stress levels and emotional wellbeing.Environmental degradation was measured using indicators of urbanization and green space accessibility.The study found that individuals who engaged in nature experiences showed significant reductions in self-reported stress levels and improved emotional well-being compared to those who did not.Access to green spaces was identified as a protective factor against the negative psychological effects of environmental degradation.The findings underscored the importance of preserving and enhancing urban green spaces to promote mental health and well-being in the face of environmental degradation.
Wang, Lavigne, Ouellette-Kuntz, Chen & Cockcroft (2017) explored the relationship between air pollution exposure and mental health outcomes among urban residents in China.The researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey involving a large sample of urban residents in multiple cities across China.Participants completed questionnaires assessing their exposure to air pollution, perceived stress levels, and symptoms of depression and anxiety.The study found a significant association between air pollution exposure and adverse mental health outcomes, including increased levels of perceived stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms.Higher levels of air pollution were correlated with poorer psychological well-being among urban residents.findings highlighted the urgent need for air quality improvement measures and mental health interventions to mitigate the psychological effects of environmental degradation in urban areas.Roe, Thompson, Russell, Jones & Laffoley (2018) dhe psychological impacts of coastal erosion and habitat loss on residents of coastal communities in the United Kingdom.The researchers conducted qualitative interviews with residents of coastal communities affected by erosion and habitat loss.Participants shared their experiences, perceptions, and emotional responses to environmental changes, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the psychological effects of coastal degradation.The study revealed that coastal erosion and habitat loss had significant psychological impacts on residents, including feelings of loss, grief, anxiety, and uncertainty about the future.Participants expressed concern about the loss of beloved natural landscapes and cultural heritage sites.The findings highlighted the importance of community-based approaches to coastal management that prioritize the psychological well-being of residents and promote adaptive coping strategies in the face of environmental change.Jones, Truelove & Wadden (2015) examined the psychological effects of deforestation on indigenous communities in the Amazon rainforest of Brazil.The researchers conducted a mixed-methods study, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with members of indigenous communities affected by deforestation.Participants were asked about their experiences, perceptions, and emotional responses to deforestation, as well as their strategies for coping with environmental change.The study found that deforestation had significant psychological impacts on indigenous communities, including increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.Participants reported feelings of loss, grief, and cultural dislocation as their traditional lands and livelihoods were threatened by deforestation.The findings underscored the importance of incorporating indigenous perspectives and traditional knowledge into conservation efforts and land management policies to promote the psychological wellbeing of indigenous communities in the face of environmental degradation.Smith, Doogan, Walton & Young (2019) investigated the psychological impacts of water pollution on rural communities in agricultural areas of the United States.The researchers conducted a mixedmethods study, combining surveys, focus groups, and environmental assessments in rural communities affected by water pollution.Participants were asked about their perceptions of water quality, concerns about health risks, and emotional responses to pollution.The study found that water pollution had significant psychological effects on rural residents, including increased levels of stress, fear, and frustration.Participants expressed concerns about the safety of their drinking water and the health impacts of pollution on themselves and their families.The findings highlighted the need for improved water quality monitoring and pollution control measures in rural areas, as well as community-based interventions to address the psychological impacts of water pollution on residents' well-being.Lee, Oh, Lee, Lee, Shin & Lee (2017) explored the psychological effects of noise pollution on urban residents in South Korea.The researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey involving a representative sample of urban residents in South Korea.Participants completed questionnaires assessing their exposure to noise pollution, perceived stress levels, and symptoms of anxiety and depression.The study found a significant association between noise pollution exposure and adverse mental health outcomes, including increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms.Higher levels of noise pollution were correlated with poorer psychological well-being among urban residents.The findings underscored the importance of noise reduction strategies and urban planning measures to mitigate the psychological effects of environmental degradation in urban areas.
García-Moya, Martín-Palomo, Collado-Mateo & García-Coll (2018) examined the psychological effects of drought on rural communities in Spain.The researchers conducted a longitudinal study involving rural communities affected by drought in Spain.Participants were surveyed before, during, and after the drought period to assess changes in psychological well-being, perceived stress levels, and coping strategies.The study found that drought had significant psychological impacts on rural residents, including increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.Participants reported feelings of uncertainty, helplessness, and financial strain as their livelihoods were threatened by droughtinduced water shortages.The findings underscored the importance of drought preparedness and resilience-building initiatives to support the psychological well-being of rural communities facing environmental challenges.

METHODOLOGY
The study adopted a desktop research methodology.Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork.Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive's time, telephone charges and directories.Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics.This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

FINDINGS
This study presented both a contextual and methodological gap.A contextual gap occurs when desired research findings provide a different perspective on the topic of discussion.For instance, García-Moya, Martín-Palomo, Collado-Mateo & García-Coll (2018) examined the psychological effects of drought on rural communities in Spain.The researchers conducted a longitudinal study involving rural communities affected by drought in Spain.Participants were surveyed before, during, and after the drought period to assess changes in psychological well-being, perceived stress levels, and coping strategies.The study found that drought had significant psychological impacts on rural residents, including increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.Participants reported feelings of uncertainty, helplessness, and financial strain as their livelihoods were threatened by drought-induced water shortages.The findings underscored the importance of drought preparedness and resiliencebuilding initiatives to support the psychological well-being of rural communities facing environmental challenges.On the other hand, the current study focused on investigating the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being.
Secondly, a methodological gap also presents itself, in their study on examining the psychological effects of drought on rural communities in Spain; García-Moya, Martín-Palomo, Collado-Mateo & García-Coll (2018) conducted a longitudinal study involving rural communities affected by drought in Spain.Participants were surveyed before, during, and after the drought period to assess changes in psychological well-being, perceived stress levels, and coping strategies.Whereas, the current study adopted a desktop research method.

Conclusion
The study has provided valuable insights into the complex relationship between environmental degradation and psychological health.Through a comprehensive review of empirical studies, we have gained a deeper understanding of how various forms of environmental degradation, including air pollution, deforestation, water pollution, coastal erosion, noise pollution, and drought, can impact human well-being at both individual and community levels.The findings underscore the urgent need for multidisciplinary approaches to address the psychological consequences of environmental degradation and promote resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
First and foremost, the study highlights the pervasive nature of environmental degradation and its farreaching impacts on human mental health.Across different environmental stressors and geographical contexts, the evidence consistently demonstrates a significant association between exposure to environmental degradation and adverse psychological outcomes, including increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and diminished overall well-being.These findings emphasize the importance of recognizing the psychological dimensions of environmental issues and integrating mental health considerations into environmental conservation and public health policies.
Furthermore, the study underscores the interconnectedness between environmental health and human well-being, highlighting the need for holistic approaches to sustainability that address both ecological and psychological factors.By recognizing the reciprocal relationship between human psychology and the natural environment, policymakers, public health professionals, and environmental advocates can develop more effective strategies for mitigating the negative impacts of environmental degradation on mental health and promoting sustainable lifestyles.This includes efforts to enhance access to green spaces, reduce pollution levels, conserve natural habitats, and support community-based adaptation initiatives.
Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of community engagement and participatory approaches in addressing the psychological effects of environmental degradation.By actively involving affected communities in decision-making processes and resilience-building efforts, stakeholders can empower individuals and foster a sense of agency and collective efficacy in confronting environmental challenges.Community-based interventions that promote social support networks, cultural resilience, and environmental stewardship can play a crucial role in enhancing psychological well-being and fostering sustainable development in vulnerable populations.The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for concerted action to address the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being.By integrating insights from psychology, environmental science, and public health, we can develop more holistic and sustainable approaches to environmental management that prioritize the health and resilience of both ecosystems and human communities.Ultimately, by recognizing the intrinsic link between environmental health and human well-being, we can work towards creating healthier, more resilient, and more sustainable societies for current and future generations.

Recommendations
The study underscores the need for a more integrated theoretical framework that accounts for the multidimensional nature of environmental degradation and its psychological impacts.Researchers advocate for the adoption of ecological models of human well-being that recognize the reciprocal relationship between individuals and their environment.By incorporating insights from ecopsychology, conservation psychology, and stress and coping theory, scholars can develop a more nuanced understanding of how environmental factors shape psychological processes and contribute to mental health outcomes.This theoretical synthesis provides a foundation for future research to explore the underlying mechanisms and pathways linking environmental degradation to psychological wellbeing, facilitating the development of more effective interventions and policy initiatives.
In terms of practice, the study emphasizes the importance of integrating mental health considerations into environmental conservation and sustainability efforts.Practitioners in fields such as environmental management, urban planning, and public health are encouraged to adopt a holistic approach that prioritizes both human and environmental well-being.This involves promoting naturebased interventions, such as green space preservation, urban greening initiatives, and ecotherapy programs, as means of enhancing psychological resilience and fostering a sense of connection to nature.By recognizing the therapeutic value of natural environments and incorporating nature-based solutions into community planning and design, practitioners can promote mental health and quality of life while also supporting ecological conservation goals.
At the policy level, the study highlights the need for evidence-based interventions and policy reforms that address the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being.Policymakers are urged to prioritize mental health considerations in environmental policy-making processes, recognizing the interconnectedness of human and environmental health.This involves implementing regulations and standards aimed at reducing exposure to environmental stressors, such as air and water pollution, and promoting equitable access to green spaces and natural resources.Additionally, policymakers are encouraged to invest in mental health services and support networks in communities affected by environmental degradation, ensuring access to resources and interventions that address the psychological impacts of environmental change.
The study emphasizes the importance of community engagement and participatory approaches in addressing the psychological effects of environmental degradation.Community-based initiatives that empower local residents to take ownership of environmental stewardship and resilience-building efforts are recommended.By involving communities in decision-making processes and fostering social cohesion, these initiatives can enhance adaptive capacity and promote collective well-being in the face of environmental challenges.Furthermore, the study highlights the role of environmental education and awareness-raising campaigns in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and promoting mental health literacy among the general population.
Given the complex and multifaceted nature of the issues at hand, the study calls for interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and community stakeholders.By bringing together expertise from fields such as psychology, environmental science, public health, sociology, and urban planning, interdisciplinary teams can generate innovative solutions that address the psychological effects of environmental degradation from multiple perspectives.This collaborative approach fosters synergy and knowledge exchange, enabling stakeholders to develop comprehensive strategies that effectively address the underlying drivers and consequences of environmental degradation on human well-being.
Finally, the study advocates for longitudinal research and evaluation to track the long-term impacts of environmental degradation on human well-being and assess the effectiveness of interventions over time.Longitudinal studies that follow individuals and communities across different stages of environmental change can provide valuable insights into the trajectories of psychological adaptation and resilience.Furthermore, rigorous evaluation of intervention programs and policy initiatives is essential for identifying best practices, addressing implementation challenges, and refining approaches based on empirical evidence.By prioritizing longitudinal research and evaluation efforts, scholars and practitioners can contribute to a growing body of knowledge that informs evidence-based decisionmaking and fosters sustainable solutions to the psychological effects of environmental degradation.
In conclusion, the recommendations put forth by the study provide a roadmap for advancing theory, practice, and policy in addressing the psychological effects of environmental degradation on human well-being.By integrating insights from multiple disciplines, engaging stakeholders at all levels, and prioritizing evidence-based approaches, stakeholders can work together to promote both environmental sustainability and mental health resilience in a rapidly changing world.