Identifying, Strengthening, & Expanding the Mental Health Component within the One Health Framework

While the One Health Framework identifies “mental health” as an integral component within the intersections of human, animal, and ecosystem health, its place within the literature remains limited. In this presentation, Chris Weatherly examines reasons why “mental health” remains underexplored within One Health research and practice, while also identifying existing themes within the literature and potential future directions. He’ll also discuss his journey in becoming interested in the field of One Health and expanding its mental health component, including his work as a mental health practitioner, researching climate change and mental health, and his current attempt to synthesize the literature on “animal mental health.” Dr. Chris Weatherly is an assistant professor in the University of Georgia School of Social Work. He is licensed clinical social worker whose research areas of interest include strengthening rural mental health systems and unpacking the intersections of climate change, environmental degradation, species loss, and mental well-being. He has over 10 years of experience as a mental health professional and has worked within acute psychiatric settings, post-disaster, and rural contexts with populations with severe mental illness, substance use concerns, and complex trauma histories.