11. Uprooted and Under Pressure: Exploring the Links Between Globalization, Environmental Issues, and Mental Health in Diasporas

Globalization has both good and bad effects. Among its positive impacts, it has caused a revolution in the environment leading to a major crisis. Quick growth in industry and cities has harmed nature, wildlife, movement of people across the globe, and their health. The damage to our planet and changing weather have put global health and life at risk. Current studies clearly show how the environmental crisis hurts people’s health through polluted air, food scarcity, and unsafe water. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the impact of globalization and the environmental crisis on people’s minds and communities. Globalization-induced changes have led to an environmental degradation and several mental and social problems. According to the World Migration Report (2019) 3.6% of all people on Earth are migrants from other countries, which is about 281 million people. These groups that reside away from their home countries are more vulnerable to dangers resulting from changing world politics, increased conflicts, lack of natural resources, and economic hardships in a new country. Sometimes governmental policies may also push these groups to the side lines. This may limit their access to various services leaving them exposed to the effects of environmental crises. Additionally, a lack of social support, money troubles, and the loss of social and cultural identity can worsen these issues. This can make it harder for them to fit into their new societies and also affect their mental health. The present chapter aims to review the current research to highlight the challenges that diaspora and migrant communities face as a result of environmental crises caused by globalization. It not only focuses on the resulting mental and social stresses but also provides suggestions for policy and treatment.