Coping strategies and barriers to coping in climate- vulnerable Bangladesh: a qualitative study

Abstract With the mental wellbeing of billions people at risk due to climate change, more research is required better understand health and psychological implications vulnerability. This contributes understanding how in vulnerable populations psychologically cope with stress crucial for adaptation efforts. We conducted n = 60 qualitative in-depth interviews men women Bhola, Bangladesh elicit lived experiences a population. analysed data following tenets Grounded Theory. Through our inductive analysis, we found coping strategies where participants highlighted what they did when encountering stress, such as ‘Resignation’ or ‘Help Seeking'. Barriers were, among others, limited ‘Efficacy', ‘Time’ ‘Stigma'. categorized barriers high-barrier and, those without reported barriers, low- barrier strategies. High-barriers restricted - especially their efforts led them using low-barrier Some can be interpreted maladaptive if used frequently, are unhealthy draw upon resources needed adapt future. Maladaptive thus impede long-term by reducing motivation ability willingness act. To enable adaptive coping, recommend lifting through community-led interventions community workers create platforms sharing problems knowledge, group support meetings. Sharing discussing could strengthen efficacy open new opportunities functional, coping. As negative impacts change will felt globally intensity frequency, enabling removing frontline communities essential supporting physical wellbeing. Key messages • lead strategies, which adaptation. Enabling