From Gold to Grief: The Psychological Toll of Climate Change on Mining Communities in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study investigates the psychological effects of climate change on gold mining communities in Zimbabwe. This research employs comprehensive interviews with miners, health professionals, and community leaders, who were selected using purposive sampling, to examine the emotional responses, such as eco-grief, anxiety, and helplessness, resulting from environmental degradation. Utilizing thematic analysis, we delineate core psychological themes and propose integrated policy solutions. This study identifies a gap in the existing literature regarding climate and mental health by investigating a vulnerable population in sub-Saharan Africa that has been inadequately studied. Many participants voiced grave concerns about their surroundings and how they impact their cognitive abilities, which calls for the creation of comprehensive laws that consider the effects of both weather-related and mental health conditions. Further research should concentrate on intervention studies to improve the efficacy of strong intellectual fitness support tailored to the challenging conditions encountered by mining communities, as well as longitudinal studies to determine the long-term mental effects of weather alternatives. A few of the recommendations include making sure that underrepresented viewpoints are considered at some stage of the decision-making process and boosting network resilience via information sharing and education. This study promotes a holistic strategy that combines health fitness treatments with environmental sustainability initiatives to guarantee a more resilient and healthy future for Zimbabwe’s mining communities.

1. Introduction

In recent years, the conversation surrounding weather extremes has expanded to encompass environmental issues, as well as the substantial impacts they have on human health and well-being [1]. Among its various effects, the influence of weather on mental health has become one of the most significant concerns [2,3]. People are going through unprecedented amounts of emotional pain because of rising global temperatures, more frequent catastrophic climate events, and changing natural environments [2,4,5]. Considering this complex issue, developing mitigation and adaptation measures requires an understanding of the delicate relationship between climate change and mental health [6,7].

There has been a growing focus on the relationship between mental and physical health in the complex discourse surrounding global climate change [8]. The mining industry in Zimbabwe is presented in this discussion as a microcosm where the complex relationship between environmental changes and mental health is particularly evident [9,10]. The mental health of workers, communities, and stakeholders is similarly impacted by rising temperatures and changing weather patterns in this crucial industry [3,11].

Recent research has shed light on the complex mechanisms underlying Zimbabwe’s mining sector, revealing a network of psychological issues and environmental pressures [10,12,13]. This industry is vital to Zimbabwe’s economy and is vulnerable to numerous climate-related hazards, including resource depletion, severe heat waves, and water scarcity [14]. Both the sustainability of mining operations and the mental resilience of individuals working in this physically demanding profession are significantly impacted by these issues [15,16,17].

The negative impacts of environmental degradation on mental health, which are made worse by socioeconomic inequality and restricted access to support and medical care, are hazardous for marginalized populations, such as artisanal miners and their families [18,19]. Furthermore, the findings of interdisciplinary research demonstrate the complex relationships between livelihood insecurity, environmental stresses, and mental health impacts in Zimbabwe’s mining sector [20].

Scholars have investigated the psychological ramifications of climate change adaptation, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive programs that address the mental and physical health of mining communities [5,21,22]. Government, academic, and civil society leaders are highlighting the value of integrated policies that prioritize community empowerment and resilience-building as Zimbabwe grapples with the dual issues of mental health and climate change [23,24]. The mining industry is becoming increasingly aware of the connection between environmental sustainability and psychological resilience, as evidenced by cooperative initiatives such as the Green Climate Fund, which supports sustainable mining practices, and the Zimbabwe Mental Health Strategy [17,25,26].

There are complex conditions in Zimbabwe’s gold mining sector that negatively impact the mental health of miners and the communities surrounding them due to severe weather events and environmental deterioration [17,27,28,29]. While there may be an increasing understanding of the connections between regardingthese issues, a significant information gap remains regarding how ecological changes brought on by weather impact cognitive fitness [1,30,31]. The development of successful policies and initiatives aimed at reducing the detrimental effects of environmental stressors on cognitive function is hampered by this disparity [32,33,34]. The sections of the article are as follows: Our observational objectives are stated and laid out first, this is followed by a succinct review of the literature and the research technique employed in the study. A conclusion and recommendations for the study’s future are given after a discussion of the interview results. After that, an interview guide and a list of references presented.

Research Objectives (ROJs)

Based on the introduction, the following objectives are formulated:

OBJ 1. 

To explore the psychological effects of climate change on miners and identify their coping mechanisms.

OBJ 2. 

To evaluate the role of socioeconomic factors in shaping community resilience and propose integrated policies that address both climate change and mental health.

2. Literature Review

Through a variety of direct and indirect methods, climate change perpetuates existing mental health conditions while simultaneously encouraging the emergence of new ones [3,21,35]. In addition to causing physical harm, natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and floods leave their victims with lasting psychological scars [36]. Displacement, job loss, and home damage cause disruptions to social networks and reduce people’s sense of security, which leads to increased anxiety, sadness, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) [37].

Furthermore, “ecological grief”—a term used to describe the continual loss of biodiversity and the deterioration of ecosystems brought on by issues like ocean acidification and deforestation—causes feelings of regret, hopelessness, and powerlessness [38,39,40,41,42]. Indigenous peoples and other oppressed groups, whose cultural identities and traditional ways of existence are strongly tied to the natural environment, may experience significant existential crises because of ecological devastation and the loss of fertile land [43].

Due to the restricted access to resources and weak infrastructure, low-income people are more vulnerable, especially those residing in desert or coastal locations that are prone to drought [44,45]. Moreover, institutional inequities often increase the susceptibility of marginalized groups, such as refugees, indigenous peoples, and racial minorities, to stressors associated with climate change [46]. Another vulnerable demographic consists of children and teenagers, who struggle with the psychological effects of unstable environments and future uncertainties [7].

Recent years have seen considerable advancements in the global conversation regarding climate change and mental health, as researchers and policymakers have acknowledged the strong connections between environmental changes and psychological health [47,48,49,50]. Studies have indicated that the growing global mental health burden is a result of ecological disruptions, extreme weather occurrences, and climate-related disasters [51,52,53,54,55]. The extensive impact of climate change on mental health is highlighted in the reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), highlighting the importance of comprehensive adaptation and mitigation measures that put human well-being and environmental sustainability first [9,56,57,58]. The need to comprehend how climate change affects mental health in a variety of industries, including mining, is highlighted by these worldwide events [9,50,55].

In Africa, mental health and climate change are significant issues, especially for those whose livelihoods depend on natural resources like mining, forestry, and agriculture [59,60]. Research from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) demonstrates that vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation, which exacerbates socioeconomic inequality and jeopardizes mental health [61]. The challenge for African governments is to manage environmental vulnerabilities while also preserving the mental health of their citizens as climate-related pressures increase [62,63].

Research with an African focus clarifies the intricate relationship between mining communities’ mental health and climate change [17,64,65]. These results highlight the importance of culturally sensitive interventions that target the interrelated risks of mental health and climate change in African mining communities [66]. In this larger framework, the mining industry in Zimbabwe becomes a crucial area of study for comprehending the complex connection between mental health and climate change [67,68,69]. Because of its substantial economic contribution and reliance on natural resources, the mining sector is essential to Zimbabwe’s socioeconomic environment [70,71,72,73]. But there are many issues facing the mining sector, such as socioeconomic inequality, environmental degradation, and climate variability, all of which affect mine workers’ mental health [18,74,75].

Concerns regarding the connection between climate change and mental health in the mining sector are growing among Zimbabwean researchers and policymakers [59,76,77,78,79]. According to studies on the psychological effects of environmental stressors on mining communities, miners and their families suffer from high levels of anxiety, depression, and PTSD [80,81,82]. Studies by organizations like the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) also show that environmental injustices and socioeconomic disparities exacerbate mental health issues in the mining sector [83].

The government of Zimbabwe has implemented several policy initiatives to address these issues and promote mental health and environmental sustainability in the mining sector [84,85]. Understanding the current body ofresearch is crucial for guiding evidence-based policies and treatments as Zimbabwe struggles with the interconnected problems of mental health in the mining industry and climate change [86,87]. To address crossover vulnerabilities and enhance resilience in mining communities as the climate changes, stakeholders may work together by fusing global knowledge with local perspectives and regional realities [88].

Climate anxiety, defined as intense fear and a sense of impending doom triggered by the existential threat of environmental degradation, is becoming increasingly common as people become more aware of climate change [89,90,91]. A familiar feeling of helplessness in the face of environmental disasters, followed by guilt over one’s own carbon impact and dissatisfaction with the perceived insufficiency of international response efforts, characterizes climate anxiety [45]. Climate anxiety can cause terrible panic attacks, sleeplessness, and behaviors if left untreated, making it harder for people to go about their everyday lives properly [92].

A multimodal approach is necessary to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on mental health, combining human coping mechanisms with structural initiatives aimed at promoting social justice and community resilience [93,94]. Through the teaching of coping mechanisms and stress-reduction techniques, psychoeducation programs can assist individuals in identifying and addressing climate-related suffering [95,96]. Creating a sense of purpose and interconnectedness, engaging with nature, and fostering environmental stewardship can help to improve people’s psychological health [97]. Implementing equitable climate adaptation methods that maintain systemic social cohesiveness and cater to the needs of disadvantaged individuals must be a top priority for policymakers [98,99,100]. Making investments in green infrastructure, increasing the accessibility of mental health services in regions at risk from climate change, and incorporating frontline workers’ perspectives into decision-making are all essential elements in creating a more inclusive and resilient society [101].

3. Materials and Methods

The interpretive perspective, which posits that reality is subjective and socially constructed [102,103,104], forms the foundation of the qualitative research design employed in this study. This paradigm was essential for comprehending the lived experiences, perspectives, and interpretations of miners in Zimbabwe’s gold mining sector regarding the effects of climate change and environmental degradation on their mental health. Purposive sampling was used to choose participants, and their relevant skills and experiences related to mental health and climate change were considered. This strategy ensured the inclusion of a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including miners from different operations, legislators, medical professionals, business leaders, and representatives of environmental organizations.

Seven selected participants were interviewed in-depth to collect comprehensive qualitative information on their perspectives and experiences about the connection between climate change and mental health. The qualitative information gathered from interviews was subjected to thematic analysis to find recurrent themes, patterns, and categories.

The data analysis employed reflexive thematic analysis, following the six-step framework [105]. The process commenced with familiarisation, during which researchers engaged comprehensively with the data to grasp its context and nuances. Initial codes were subsequently developed to emphasize the significant characteristics of the data. This step was essential for theme identification, as it entailed organizing related codes into more comprehensive categories. The themes were assessed to confirm the precision of their representation of the data and their coherence. The definition and naming of themes clarified their significance, enabling the composition of an analysis that effectively communicates insights derived from the data. The researchers conducted manual coding and employed iterative reviews to enhance themes, ensuring a comprehensive and detailed interpretation of the findings.

The study’s goals and methods were thoroughly explained to the participants. All information was anonymized, and participant identities were kept private. The study sought ethical approval from the appropriate institutional review boards or ethics committees to guarantee that ethical standards were followed throughout the research process. The subjective character of qualitative research and the difficulties in extrapolating results to different situations are two of the study’s stated shortcomings. Nonetheless, the breadth of knowledge acquired provided insightful information on the difficulties faced by Zimbabwean mining communities. This study’s contributions included the identification of community resilience strategies, a thorough understanding of how environmental degradation and climate change affect mental health in the gold mining industry, and the creation of evidence-based policy recommendations to improve mental health services and advance sustainability.

Although this study focused on a small population within Zimbabwean gold mining towns, the richness of the qualitative data provided significant insight into the real-life experiences of people who were impacted. However, we recognized that generalizability has limitations. To verify the transferability of these findings, future studies could examine cross-regional comparisons across additional artisanal mining locations or use bigger sample sizes. The lack of quantitative measurements like the GAD-7 for anxiety or the PHQ-9 for depression constrained the ability to evaluate mental health consequences statistically; nonetheless, the qualitative approach provides deep, comprehensive insights. Future mixed-methods research should employ environmental vulnerability indexes and standardized mental health evaluations to corroborate and quantify results.

3.1. Results and Discussion

Residents of Zimbabwe’s gold mining areas provided qualitative data that shed light on the complex ways that weather extremes affect their daily lives. The responses showed the complex interplay between issues of intellectual fitness, network resilience, and environmental degradation. Motivation-related questions that highlighted challenges and coping strategies were used to elicit stories from participants. Generally, the questions were asked without offering any solutions to avoid bias. Interview results are discussed below.

3.2. Environmental Degradation and Its Association with Climate Change

The knowledge and insight of community members allowed us to understand the difficulties the community was facing. Interviewees were asked to describe how mining-related environmental damage affected the climate. According to a summary of respondents’ responses, 75 percent of respondents said that AGM was negatively affecting the environment because it necessitated the removal of large tracts of forest. As large tracts of land were destroyed for mining operations, respondents reported that once green and vibrant places had abruptly turned arid (42.86%). One interviewee offered the following statement to support the argument:

“Areas that were green and cool have suddenly become dry, and the amount of the CO₂ levels released during the day and carbon dioxide released during the night have decreased, which aspect l feel has contributed to climate change as evidenced by frequent droughts that we now experience within the country.”

Two-thirds of the respondents (66.67%) stated that problems created by the AGM sector’s operations, such as soil erosion and water pollution, had contributed to climate change. Respondents contended that mining operations frequently caused deforestation, which in turn caused soil erosion. In addition to causing land degradation, deforestation releases stored carbon into the atmosphere when it is not covered by vegetation. It also encourages soil erosion and contaminates water bodies because eroded soil carries chemicals that impact the environment and biodiversity. Additional interviewees contended that mining was inherently harmful since it released hazardous chemicals and heavy metals and that, because most of the AGM industry ignores environmental management due to a lack of the necessary resources and training, water sources were contaminated, making them unfit for human and animal consumption.

Interviews were also conducted on the same theme to explore the impact of understanding climate change on attitudes toward the mining business. An examination of the responses showed that although participants were aware of how their daily actions harmed the environment and contributed to climate change, their poverty and lack of resources prevented them from taking any corrective action because they were focused on surviving and thus continued to engage in environmentally harmful activities (78.57%). Respondents stated that the absence of government assistance, brought on by economic depreciation, was a major problem because, even if people were aware of how their actions affected climate change, they contended that talking about it would not fix the issue if changes were not put into practice (42.86%). One participant had this to say:

“I am very aware of how my work in the mining industry is related to climate change. My only concern is making money and being productive so that I can live. When there are no resources available to implement sustainable mining methods, what should l as an individual do? As a human, I must feel obligated to teach my coworkers about sustainable mining methods, but how can a resource-poor individual accomplish that when the government permits traders to import mercury, which is bad for the environment and people, and sells us AGMs?”

Few of the respondents (35.71%) stated that they are now engaging in sustainable mining to protect the environment for future generations after realizing how their actions contribute to climate change. One participant had this to say:

“After learning about climate change, I am now more critical of Zimbabwe’s mining practices. I initially believed that mining would help support my family, but now that I know that it contributes to long-term climate change, I feel conflicted. Extreme weather patterns, like unpredictable rainfall and soaring temperatures, have a direct impact on my everyday life. For example, it is now intolerable to work in open mining pits during heat waves, which raises health concerns like dehydration. This understanding has motivated me to support sustainable initiatives like reforestation and less chemical pollution, despite the high implementation costs.”

These participants contended that they now feel more obligated to reduce their environmental damage by teaching their coworkers and the community about ways to preserve local ecosystems. In the long run, they hope that this will create a workforce and community that is more environmentally conscious.

This study’s component shows that mining operations are the primary cause of environmental deterioration, particularly pollution and deforestation; both of these are related to climate change. Significant land clearing for mining has been linked to altered weather because it reduces biodiversity and disturbs surrounding ecosystems. This viewpoint is consistent with more general findings in the literature, which emphasize how the AGM sector affects environmental concerns and increases weather vulnerabilities [106,107]. Climate change-induced water shortages and reduced agricultural productivity are two examples of environmental degradation that have a direct impact on people’s capacity to earn a living. The researchers’ assertion that AGM negatively impacts the health and environmental fitness of the surrounding people due to the toxic and polluting compounds it releases, like mercury, is supported by this [89].

3.3. Emotional Impact and Climate Anxiety

A variety of replies from the respondents helped us to understand the emotional impact and climate concerns of the community. Inquiries concerning climate anxiety were open-ended for interviewees. The first question posed under this theme asked interviewees if they had ever experienced anxiety related to climate change and what they expected would happen in the future. The responses from the respondents were diverse. Despite having little control over it, most respondents (85.71%) said they were concerned about how environmental degradation was affecting climate change. Some interviewees (78.57%) expressed a sense of helplessness and being overwhelmed at the speed at which mining was contributing to climate change. A small percentage of respondents (35.71%) expressed sadness and regret at the ecosystem’s loss and said that whenever they witnessed the shift, they occasionally felt like visitors in their homes. One respondent said the following:

“Sometimes it’s difficult for me to know if I’m in Penhalonga or somewhere else. Even though I am partly to blame for this loss, I am saddened that mining has caused us to lose such a lovely location.”

The other respondent stated the following:

“Yes, I frequently get anxiety due to environmental changes. I’m concerned about my family’s and my community’s future since extreme weather events like droughts and floods are happening more frequently. I’ve witnessed livelihoods being jeopardized and crops failing, which breeds uncertainty. The awareness that our mining operations are a contributing factor to these environmental problems exacerbates this worry. Every time the seasons shift unpredictably, I find myself anxiously monitoring the weather. I find it difficult to concentrate on my work when I’m concerned about how these changes may impact the welfare of our community.”

Economic worries regarding the effects of environmental changes on industries, including agriculture and tourism, were expressed by most respondents (85.71%). Furthermore, they were concerned about the possibility of being displaced because of more frequent natural disasters brought on by climate change (35.71%). One respondent said the following:

“Anxiety can also result from wanting to do something yet feeling powerless and unsure of how to have a significant influence. Anxiety and dissatisfaction can result from the disconnect between awareness and action.”

The other respondent had this to say:

“I have experienced anxiety regularly, particularly during the dry seasons when temperatures rise, and the likelihood of rain has diminished. In our mining community, for instance, rivers that once flowed regularly are suddenly drying up, making it unknown whether there will be enough water for everyday necessities as well as labour. Not only are there environmental changes, but families are also facing difficulties such as crop failure, livestock deaths, and ongoing concerns about the impact on our children and means of subsistence. It is made worse by mining dust and air pollution, which can occasionally make me feel physically and emotionally suffocated.”

To mitigate the negative consequences of climate change, 35.71% of the respondents expressed a desire for the government and communities to fund adaptation measures, including disaster preparedness investments in infrastructure and sustainable resource management techniques. Half of those surveyed reported having no optimistic outlook for the future. They predicted that because of the economic crisis, there would be more AGMs, and as they believed that due to the industry flouting laws and regulations, environmental degradation would worsen while climate change issues would also worsen. It was found that in some cases, when AGMs found gold ore beneath a road, the road was destroyed (42.86%). Some respondents criticized the Ministry of Mines and the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), the regulators, for failing to adequately monitor and oversee AGMAGMs due to a lack of funding in the wake of Zimbabwe’s economic crisis.

In keeping with the same subject, interviewees were asked how they felt about the changes that followed climate and environmental change. According to a summary of respondents’ answers, 42.86% stated that they felt powerless and overwhelmed by the severity of climate issues and what lay ahead. They expressed their dissatisfaction and fury toward those responsible for environmental degradation, as well as the government, which they claim was not doing enough to rescue the environment. Participants (35.71%) expressed concern about health difficulties, biodiversity loss, declining agricultural production, and probable extreme weather events such as hurricanes. Overall, 85.71% of participants stated that strategies to mitigate environmental changes were necessary because they were concerned about the potential for increased health risks associated with climate change, such as high temperatures that could These issues may result in respiratory problems, waterborne illnesses, and food insecurity. Furthermore, respondents (57.14%) express concern about the possible effects of climate change on vulnerable groups, such as indigenous people and low-income earners, who are expected to suffer disproportionately because they have fewer resources to adapt to the changing climate.

According to this study’s findings, people are now facing the challenge of climate anxiety. Stress among participants stems from the unpredictable nature of climatic effects, particularly extreme weather situations. This reinforces the findings of the research that indicate the health concerns caused by climate change, demonstrating that societies that have evolved coping mechanisms are better positioned to avert stress than those who have yet to come to grips with their future [108,109]. The survey also portrayed participants’ sentiments of powerlessness in the face of these situations. The idea that they had little control over their activities elicited a widespread sense of displeasure, consistent with the cognitive cost of unsustainable mining [108,110,111]. These emotional responses underline the need to receive targeted mental health therapy at an early stage.

3.4. Psychological Well-Being and Ecological Grief

In terms of psychological well-being and ecological bereavement, respondents were questioned about their ecological grieving and how environmental changes affect them. According to a synthesis of respondents’ (57.14%) responses, most miners were unconcerned about environmental changes because their primary priority was making money to survive and providing for their families during the economic crisis. A few respondents (21.43%) expressed sadness as they watched the changing environment in which they had grown up and so felt detached from the very land that nurtured and maintained them. These respondents reported tremendous melancholy, the mourning of loss, a loss of nature, cultural changes, and future uncertainty, all of which were caused by environmental changes. Respondents (28.57%) reported that the most unpleasant aspects were deteriorated landscapes and polluted water sources, impacting participants’ mental health. Two interviewees commented that

“When I consider the changes in our environment, I frequently experience a profound sense of sadness. Green spaces have disappeared, and fauna that once thrived in our neighbourhood is no longer there. This sense of loss extends to our community’s identity; we are losing our connection to the land and the traditions that accompany it. It feels like a part of my childhood is gone, along with a sense of belonging to a thriving, healthy ecology.”

The other respondent remarked that

“The sight of filthy rivers disturbs me. Rivers such as the Mazowe, which were once clear and abundant with fish, are now choked with chemicals and silt. This not only harms the environment but also serves as a reminder of what we’ve lost: a natural resource on which we once relied. It’s difficult to look at this without feeling incredibly depressed. Rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns exacerbate the situation, disrupting agriculture and making living even more difficult in an already difficult environment.”

This aspect of the study suggests that artisanal gold miners are primarily motivated by financial gain and appear unconcerned about environmental issues. When they saw the environmental changes caused by their acts, some people showed deep anguish, loss, and grief (

Table 1. Major themes mentioned.

Major Theme	% of Participants Mentioning
Climate anxiety	71.43%
Eco-grief	61.90%
Social fragmentation	52.38%
Helplessness	85.71%

).

3.5. Community Resilience and Adaptive Strategies

Regarding community resilience and adaptive methods, respondents were asked how they dealt with the effects of climate change and what solutions they used to manage climate change, and they provided more than one response. A synthesis of respondent responses (78.57%) suggested that climate change was a relatively recent topic in Zimbabwe, and most people had not taken it seriously, despite the widespread impacts already being evident. Nearly a quarter of respondents (21.42%) stated that community groups had been formed to aid and mobilize resources for individuals in the mining community who were impacted by the effects of climate change. Some see the formation of mining community groups as a political move because they are linked to the government. However, participants revealed that in other areas, they have proven to be vital in areas that have experienced severe climate change, as these networks help individuals cope with the change through sharing experiences and mutual support. Indeed, 35.71% of respondents reported that NGOs, with government backing, have been conducting educational workshops in selected mining areas, emphasizing emotional resilience and mental health awareness among mining community people. A few respondents (21.43%) stated that Zimbabwe has demonstrated a commitment to environmental sustainability by establishing National Clean-Up Days, with the first Friday of each month designated as a National Day of Cleaning, which has helped some members of the community engage in environmental activism. One respondent stated that

“I appreciate the government’s efforts to establish community organizations where we can share our experiences, but I don’t believe this is particularly beneficial. The administration has been lenient against environmental violators. As a farmer in the mining community, I am also contributing to climate change by failing to embrace environmentally friendly farming practices; yet everyone is aware that AGM is extremely harmful to the environment.”

And another respondent said that

“Yes, I’ve noticed a few projects, although they’re usually small-scale and locally led. For example, community groups have launched clean-up initiatives near artisanal mining sites to remove mining waste that leads to soil and water pollution. Local NGOs also organize awareness campaigns to educate people about the effects of climate change and how to minimize them. Some churches and community leaders have collaborated to hold workshops on sustainable practices, such as adopting energy-efficient gas stoves to reduce wood use. However, these efforts are frequently intermittent and may benefit from more coordinated government and corporate sector support.”

Half of the respondents stated that there was a need to connect people with nature. They stated that poverty, exacerbated by the economic collapse, had intensified environmental degradation, and that the government and NGOs needed to support outdoor activities and foster a connection with nature to improve mental health. In this context, it was suggested that the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) support communities in establishing gardens, which would keep members engaged and lessen tension. Respondents (28.57%) stated that the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) should play essentiala crucial role in training perpetrators of environmental degradation to adopt sustainable mining techniques, as there is only one world. During interviews, respondents (35.71%) agreed that while not everyone benefits from mining activities, climate change is now present and affecting the entire country, making it prudent for the government to treat this as a national concern that requires an immediate response. In total, 42.86% of respondents said that farmers in the mining community adapted to climate change by planting drought-resistant crops such as sorghum and millet. Furthermore, Zimbabwe has designated the first Saturday of December as National Tree Planting Day, and respondents (28.57%) have stated that, using community groups and local leaders, tree planting initiatives have begun in mining areas as a strategy to combat deforestation, a major issue linked to climate change. Schools have also been urged to teach pupils the value of environmental conservation, which is regarded as an essential strategy in combating climate change.

This study demonstrates that caring for nature by planting trees and educating people about environmental conservation would go a long way toward connecting people with nature and, in the long run, helping to conserve it. Despite the obstacles brought about by climate change, people demonstrated remarkable resilience and organization in dealing with their situations. Examples of network involvement in sustainable activities and collaborative action include tree planting and network gardening. This is consistent with the premise that collaborating with local sustainability groups will foster social bonds, reinforcing a common commitment to addressing climate change [33,112,113]. The value of guide networks within groups was also highlighted. Participants discussed how shared experiences and community connections helped establish friendships, while also providing practical and emotional support. This discussion aligns with the notion expressed by researchers that network coherence is crucial in mitigating the consequences of environmental degradation [114,115,116,117].

3.6. Socioeconomic Factors and Inequalities

In terms of socioeconomic variables and inequality, respondents were asked how a lack of resources had impacted their ability to deal with the effects of climate change. A summary of respondents’ responses (78.57%) demonstrated that a lack of resources has a significant impact on a community’s ability to implement sustainable mining methods, mitigating climate change and its repercussions. It was discovered that most AGMs are impoverished and live hand to mouth, making survival more vital than sustainable mining (28.57%). Interviewees (57.14%) stated that since the economic collapse, there has been a significant increase in unemployment, and AGM has become increasingly appealing to many miners, despite their lack of resources to invest in climate-resistant infrastructure. Most respondents (85.71%) stated that economic inequalities were the most significant barriers to adopting environmental reforms, as mining regions suffered greater rates of unemployment, making it challenging to spend resources on climate adaptation. One commenter stated that

“It is apparent that a lack of community resources exacerbates all the challenges we face because of climate change. Poverty, unemployment, and economic insecurity make it considerably more difficult to adjust and become resilient. Many households cannot afford to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, move to more climate-resilient livelihoods, or even seek professional help to cope with the growing psychological stress. We are still at a crossroads between meeting our fundamental needs and planning for an uncertain future. It is impossible.”

Some respondents (78.57%) stated that most communities are marginalized and live in isolation due to a lack of strong network connections, which impedes collective action and so limits people’s possibilities to participate in climate efforts and lobby for resources. Respondents indicated that a lack of access to information was a significant issue for certain gold mining communities, as it hindered awareness of risks and viable solutions, making it difficult to prepare for and respond to climate-related impacts. Respondents (57.14%) also stated that most AGMs are perceived to come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and that they are typically excluded from participating in decision-making processes related to climate change adaptation, resulting in policies that do not reflect their views, making it impossible to achieve sustainable goals. Respondents (21.43%) said that since they are marginalized, they have limited access to educational resources and awareness programs, provided by both the government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This inhibits them from adopting proactive measures to mitigate climate risks in the long run. During interviews, some respondents (42.86%) identified cultural beliefs as a barrier to adapting to climate change, stating that in some gold mining communities, cultural beliefs or traditions may lead to resistance to adopting new practices or technologies, resulting in conflict and impeding sustainable practices. Respondents contended that some people in mining communities viewed the adoption of activities as endangering cultural practices related to the land, which could lead to a loss of and detachment from traditional practices.

One aspect of this study’s findings indicates that communities face economic constraints, social disparities, cultural hurdles, and infrastructure limitations as impediments to adapting to climate change. The study discovered that socioeconomic status had a significant influence on participants’ reports of weather changes. Most respondents believed that aid boundaries hindered environmental change adaptation, particularly among underprivileged groups. The fact that this socioeconomic difference renders people more vulnerable highlights the critical importance of regulations addressing social disparities in the context of climate adaptation. Participants emphasized the link between gender and environmental issues, and they expressed worry about how low-income households and women are disproportionately affected by weather changes. This claim backs up the claim by [118] findings, which underlines the importance of using gender-sensitive tactics while dealing with harsh contextual conditions.

The aspect of this study demonstrates that women and low-income groups experience significant adversity, highlighting the necessity for intersectional research. Examination of gender roles, caregiving, and resource accessibility in the context of women’s mental health and environmental sensitivity could help mitigate inequality by devising gender-responsive climate policy.

3.7. Future Concerns and Policy Reflections

Respondents were questioned about their fears about the future of their community as climate change worsens, as well as policy or support system changes they would like to see implemented to address these challenges. A synthesis of respondents’ (28.57%) responses suggested that participants were most concerned about future increases in natural catastrophes such as wildfires, floods, and extreme weather events, which could result in displacement, property loss, and significant disruptions to community cohesion. When considering the number of people who have ventured into AGM and the rate at which environmental damage occurs, several respondents (42.85%) voiced concern about the survival of planet Earth if something is not done as soon as possible. Respondents (28.57%) argued that the community is at risk of losing natural resources such as clean water, fertile soils, and biodiversity, which are critical not just for agriculture and subsistence but also for the group’s cultural and spiritual health. During the interviews, several respondents (35.71%) voiced concern about water scarcity and food insecurity, stating that as climate conditions change, these critical resources may become jeopardized, leading to increasing competition and conflict.

Respondents (42.86%) were also concerned about the direct and indirect health effects of climate change, such as heat-related illnesses, respiratory issues caused by poor air quality, and mental health challenges, particularly among vulnerable members of the community who may lack access to adequate healthcare, exacerbating these problems. Respondents (21.43%) were also concerned about the potential health repercussions of being exposed to pollutants, including heavy metals and chemicals used in gold processing. During interviews, 31.71% of respondents stated that there has been an inflow of many people into mining areas searching for gold, putting pressure on the scant resources available and resulting in the destruction of culture. The most common concern expressed by respondents (42.86%) was that because the miners came from all over the country, the earnings from AGM were not used to enhance the mining towns where resources were extracted, but rather the communities from which these miners came. Respondents went on to claim that it was likely that people would migrate from these mining settlements after the gold was depleted, leaving them as ghost towns with no clean water, damaged land, and dilapidated infrastructure. Furthermore, respondents (21.43%) claimed that, in addition to physical features, there is a loss of social heritage associated with land, as its loss of value through deterioration may detach individuals from the environment, resulting in a loss of identity and belonging.

Respondents (57.14%) suggested investing in resilience infrastructure to address the pressing issues exacerbated by climate change, establishing mental health support systems in communities severely affected by the phenomenon, and developing programs to help workers transition from vulnerable industries (like fossil fuels) to renewable energy sectors to reduce economic impacts. Additionally, they suggested providing resources for community education about climate change and its local effects, and implementing policies that prioritize the needs of low-income and marginalized communities in climate action plans.

This component of the study reveals that respondents were primarily concerned about greater future calamities that could cause people to be displaced from their homes. Respondents are also concerned about the survival of planet Earth due to the damaging nature of mining activities. In line with the opinions of experts who believe these factors will lead to more conflicts, the study also revealed that respondents were concerned about the depletion of biodiversity, water, and rich soils.

3.8. Contrast Results with Studies from Other Regions

The qualitative analysis of climate-induced environmental deterioration in Zimbabwe’s gold mining towns reveals distress patterns that closely align with global phenomena of solastalgia and eco-anxiety. Participants in Zimbabwe articulate profound sorrow and nostalgia for their formerly intact environment, coupled with apprehension about the future, thereby exemplifying solastalgic suffering as their landscape is devastated by mining and climate-related pressures. Geographically specific grief and concern align with findings from other areas. In Australia, communities affected by the 2019–2020 bushfires experienced notable solastalgia, as the loss of valued landscapes and wildlife directly contributed to psychological distress [119]. Similarly, residents in a Chilean mountain community facing a new open-pit mine are experiencing significant eco-anxiety due to concerns over the potential degradation of their river and ecosystem, leading to fears for their land and identity [90,120]. Survey research conducted across 32 countries indicates that climate-related anxiety, which encompasses feelings of worry, sadness, and hopelessness regarding environmental change, is a prevalent reaction in communities that perceive threats to their livelihoods or homes [121,122]. The observed similarities suggest a shared psychological response: in Zimbabwe and beyond, environmental degradation elicits grief over the loss of “home” and anxiety about uncertain futures. This highlights that solastalgia and associated emotions represent a global phenomenon in response to mining and climate-induced changes.

4. Conclusions

The intricate link between mental health and climate change, particularly in Zimbabwe’s gold mining sector, highlights the urgent need for comprehensive, evidence-based solutions. This study has illuminated how environmental degradation exacerbates mental health conditions, revealing the profound feelings of anxiety, eco-grief, and helplessness experienced by miners and their communities. The findings collectively demonstrate the socioeconomic vulnerability of these groups and the close relationship between poverty, resource scarcity, institutional injustice, and the psychological effects of climate change.

The government, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders must collaborate to develop integrated policies that prioritize mental health and environmental sustainability equally, as Zimbabwe grapples with the dual challenges of mental health and climate change. Such policies should promote mental health support, sustainable practices, and community involvement to guarantee that underrepresented groups participate in decision-making processes. Additionally, increasing community resilience through education, support networks, and the distribution of resources can significantly mitigate the detrimental consequences of climate change on mental health. Beyond scholarly study, the link between weather extremes and mental fitness in Zimbabwe’s mining sector demands inclusive, empirically supported solutions that value the uniqueness and welfare of all parties involved. By promoting communication, providing financing for research, and putting specific laws into place, Zimbabwe may set out on the path to a more resilient and sustainable future that safeguards both the environment and the health of its citizens.

Longitudinal and quantitative studies should be conducted in future to augment this qualitative research and evaluate causal links between climate change stresses and mental health outcomes. This method can help monitor changes in mental health over time, providing valuable information about the effectiveness of therapies. Researching the effectiveness of mental health interventions designed for communities impacted by climate change is particularly crucial. Programs that combine environmental education and psychological assistance may be beneficial. We can better understand how different contexts affect the relationship between climate change and mental health by conducting more comparative studies across various sectors or regions in Zimbabwe and beyond. These studies should involve cultural studies featuring a variety of stakeholders, such as miners, community leaders, mental health professionals, and environmental activists to capture a range of perspectives and promote cooperative solutions.

The findings underscore the need to incorporate mental health considerations into national climate change adaptation strategies. Policymakers ought to allocate funds for mental health services in mining communities, mandate environmental and mental health impact assessments for mining projects, and support community-based psychosocial initiatives.