Strengthening healthcare systems and mental health resilience in response to environmental crises through multi-professional health centers – ECO-MSP

Environmental crises pose significant threats to human health, with approximately 20% of deaths in Europe attributed to environmental causes, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In the Pays de la Loire region, climate change has exacerbated issues such as extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and long-term environmental degradation. Vulnerable populations—including farmers, fishers, foresters, environmental professionals, and young people—are disproportionately affected. These disruptions amplify psychological challenges such as eco-anxiety, chronic stress, and mental health disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite their crucial role in community health, Multi-Professional Healthcare Centers (MSPs) remain insufficiently equipped to address these emerging challenges.

The ECO-MSP project, led by the Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire (LPPL), specializes in environmental psychology and collaborates with the Centre Nantais de Sociologie (CENS), which contributes expertise in health systems, as well as the Agence Régionale de Santé (ARS) Pays de la Loire. Together, these partners aim to tackle these challenges through two interconnected work packages.

The first work package focuses on evaluating the specific mental health needs of at-risk populations using a mixed-method approach. Qualitative techniques (focus groups, interviews) and quantitative tools (surveys) will assess stress, anxiety, and vulnerability to eco-emotions. A longitudinal study will explore the long-term psychological impacts of seasonal variations and extreme climatic events, guiding the development of tailored mental health strategies to support affected populations.
The second work package adopts a research-action approach to adapt local healthcare systems to environmental risks. Collaborating with ten MSPs and other stakeholders (e.g., territorial authorities, patient associations), this package includes awareness campaigns and training sessions for healthcare professionals on the health impacts of environmental crises. Participants will co-construct action plans that integrate sustainable practices and health interventions. These plans will include protocols to manage eco-anxiety, support vulnerable patients, and ensure care continuity during extreme weather events. The participatory approach ensures the inclusion of diverse perspectives and fosters collaboration between MSPs, local authorities, and community organizations.

Rooted in the One Health framework, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, ECO-MSP uses an interdisciplinary methodology that leverages expertise from psychologists, sociologists, and environmental transition specialists. This ensures the project addresses mental health challenges while reducing the ecological footprint of healthcare practices. Anticipated outcomes include enhanced MSP resilience, improved mental and physical healthcare, and the adoption of sustainable practices in healthcare systems. By offering a replicable and scalable model for integrating environmental health into local healthcare systems, ECO-MSP empowers healthcare professionals and communities to proactively address the health impacts of environmental crises while advancing knowledge at the intersection of environmental and health sciences.

The project requests a funding amount of 165,350 euros, for a total project cost of 207 199 euros.