Eco-psychiatry and Environmental Conservation in Sundarban Delta, India
Author Information
Author(s): Chowdhury Arabinda N., Mondal Ranajit, Brahma Arabinda, Biswas Mrinal K.
Primary Institution: Institute of Psychiatry, Kolkata, India
Hypothesis
This study attempts to examine the extent and impact of human-animal conflicts on the mental health of affected people in two villages adjacent to Sundarban Reserve Forest.
Conclusion
Improvement of quality of life of this deltaic population by appropriate income generation and proper bio-forest management are the key factors to save their life as well as the mangrove environment of the Sundarban region.
Supporting Evidence
- 32.8% of people live on forest-based occupation.
- 111 persons became victims of animal attacks in the last 15 years, with a high fatality rate.
- Major mental health issues identified included Major Depressive Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Takeaway
This study shows that people living near the Sundarban forest face many dangers from animal attacks, which affect their mental health and well-being.
Methodology
Door-to-door household survey, Focus Group Discussions, In-depth Interviews, Case studies, Community Mental health clinics, and participatory observation.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to reliance on self-reported data from victims and their families.
Limitations
The study may not capture all incidents of human-animal conflict due to underreporting and the illegal status of many forest intruders.
Participant Demographics
The study involved households from two villages, with a total population of 16,999, including a significant number of individuals engaged in forest-based occupations.
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