Across Africa, heatwaves, droughts, cyclones and intense flooding are no longer rare or exceptional. These events, once considered unusual, have become increasingly frequent as climate patterns shift. Major African cities are now among the fastest-deteriorating regions in terms of air quality, with pollution levels projected to climb even further in the coming years.
While extreme weather events are visibly damaging communities, destroying property and affecting businesses, experts warn that there is another crisis unfolding beneath the surface. The mental health consequences of climate change—particularly on the workforce—are severe, far-reaching and often overlooked.
These concerns were emphasised during a recent International SOS webinar, where specialists in health, psychology and disaster response discussed the growing evidence linking environmental disruptions to psychological distress. They highlighted how organisations must adapt to protect employees, maintain productivity, and strengthen long-term resilience.
According to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), weather-related disasters have resulted in more than US$4.3 trillion in global economic losses, and the frequency of these climate hazards continues to rise. At the same time, scientific interest in the psychological impact of natural disasters has increased dramatically.
Maria Gomez Mojica, a Mental Health and Wellbeing Consultant at International SOS, pointed out that research on the mental impact of extreme climate events has grown by more than 210% between 2016 and 2023. This surge reflects the urgency with which the scientific community is trying to understand the issue.
Studies now show that extreme heat can negatively affect brain function, amplify stress levels, and heighten inflammation in the body. This combination increases the risk of non-communicable diseases and can intensify existing mental health symptoms. In Africa, where the mental health treatment gap is the largest in the world, the strain on healthcare systems becomes even more concerning.
Mojica explained, “Heat influences far more than physical comfort. It affects concentration, medication stability, mood regulation, sleep patterns, and the severity of underlying mental health disorders. These effects are being observed across different continents, cultures and age groups.”
Extreme weather also poses a major threat to businesses. Africa’s workforce is especially vulnerable, particularly the agricultural sector, which accounts for 65% to 70% of employment across the continent. Farmers rely heavily on predictable seasons, and when droughts, floods or heatwaves destroy crops, the emotional and financial consequences ripple through entire communities.
Emergency responders, healthcare professionals, construction workers, and industrial labourers are also at high risk, as they often work outdoors or in environments directly affected by poor air quality and extreme temperatures. When workers experience chronic stress, anxiety, exhaustion or trauma, it leads to decreased productivity, higher safety risks and weakened organisational stability.
However, many organisations remain unprepared. During the webinar, a live poll of 150 participants found that only 12% have established mental health response plans tailored to extreme weather conditions.
Dr Anthony Renshaw, Regional Medical Director at International SOS, noted that climate-related events are still largely viewed only as structural or operational threats. “To manage these situations effectively, leaders need to understand that climate change directly affects workforce wellbeing. It is not just an environmental issue—it’s a human one.”
To address this growing challenge, experts recommend a “Before, During and After” preparedness model:
Before:
– Train managers on psychological safety
– Identify vulnerable employee groups
– Develop clear communication protocols
– Ensure staff know how and where to access mental health support
During:
– Provide immediate psychological assistance within the first 24–48 hours
– Offer rest areas, hydration and medical aid
– Deploy onsite mental health professionals
Early support significantly reduces long-term trauma.
After:
– Continue structured mental health support
– Monitor recovery and reintegration
– Strengthen organisational resilience for future events
As climate-related hazards intensify across the continent, the psychological fallout is expected to grow. Businesses in sectors such as agriculture, mining, healthcare, construction, manufacturing and emergency services must rethink their approach. Reactive strategies are no longer enough—proactive mental health planning is essential.
Dr Renshaw concluded with a powerful reminder: “Natural hazards are no longer just operational disruptions. They are human crises. Protecting the mental wellbeing of employees is now crucial for economic stability, workforce resilience and long-term national development.”
