Practices Supporting Community Recovery and Healing from Climate-Related Disasters: A Systematic Review

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2024 Jun 18;21(6):795. doi: 10.3390/ijerph21060795.

Abstract

This systematic review investigated the practices that support and hinder the recovery and healing of communities and the environments within which they live, following climate-related environmental disasters. Although the literature focused on recovery is dominated by interventions aimed at the individual and their mental health, a thematic analysis of thirty-six studies established a range of practices that enhance collective recovery and healing. Four narratives were identified from the findings highlighting key practices: (1) collective and community-led recovery; (2) recognising the criticality of context, place, and identity; (3) adopting a holistic conception of well-being and Country-centred practices; and (4) decolonising and Indigenising the literature. This study details recommendations for research and practice. First Nations' knowledges and healing practices need to be recognised and harnessed in climate-related environmental disaster recovery. Community-led interventions harness local knowledge, networks, and expertise, which improves the dissemination of resources and enables recovery efforts to be tailored to the specific needs of communities.

Keywords: community; disasters; healing; practices; recovery; systematic review.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Natural Disasters*

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