Abstract:
Climate change and environmental degradation are increasingly affecting both health and social
stability. In Sri Lanka, frequent floods, droughts, and extreme weather events disrupt livelihoods,
damage infrastructure, and place additional pressure on already limited health services. These
environmental stresses not only affect physical health but also influence social relationships,
increasing vulnerability and tension within communities, particularly in rural and low-resource
settings. This case study explores the relationship between environmental stress, community
health, and social cohesion in climate-affected communities in Sri Lanka. The study is based
on field observations from primary healthcare practice and community interactions in areas
repeatedly affected by flooding. The focus was on understanding how environmental shocks influence
disease patterns, access to healthcare, and interactions within communities. No personal
or identifiable information was collected. The observations indicate that environmental stress
increases infectious diseases, disrupts routine healthcare, and affects management of chronic
illnesses. Communities also experience psychological stress, economic insecurity, and reduced
access to services. These pressures sometimes create competition for limited resources and
weaken trust in institutions. At the same time, strong community cooperation and mutual support
were observed during recovery periods, demonstrating local resilience. The findings suggest
that community health plays an important role in environmental peacebuilding. Strengthening
primary healthcare services, supporting community-based responses, and improving preparedness
for environmental events may reduce social tension and promote long-term resilience. This
case study highlights the importance of integrating health, environmental management, and
social cohesion in climate-affected settings and provides practical insights for policymakers and
practitioners.
