A year-long harmful algal bloom along the South Australian coastline has not only devastated marine life and created health risks for people and pets, but has also significantly impacted the mental health of local communities.

New research from the University of Adelaide, published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, surveyed more than 600 South Australians during the peak of the 2025 bloom and found widespread eco-anxiety – distress linked to environmental damage.

The survey revealed that:

• 69% of respondents couldn’t stop thinking about the bloom
• 63% felt anxious or helpless about its impacts
• 54% experienced emotional distress such as fear or sadness
• 20% reported sleep problems or difficulty concentrating

Lead researcher Dr Brianna Le Busque said the findings highlight that environmental crises can deeply affect community wellbeing, not just ecosystems.

For many respondents, the bloom disrupted their connection to the ocean—traditionally a place for relaxation and recreation. Nearly half of those directly affected stopped activities such as swimming, surfing, walking or fishing due to the bloom and associated health warnings.

Around 40% of those impacted said their mental health had suffered, describing feelings of grief, frustration and depression. Some participants said seeing dead marine life washed ashore felt comparable to losing a loved one.

People working in the seafood sector may be particularly affected by events like harmful algal blooms, as they are often on the frontline of environmental change and their livelihoods depend directly on healthy marine ecosystems.

The study highlights the importance of recognising eco-anxiety as a real public health issue, particularly as climate-driven marine events like heatwaves and harmful algal blooms become more frequent.

Researchers say understanding these psychological impacts will be critical for building community resilience and ensuring mental health support is included in environmental response planning.

If you or someone you know in the seafood or marine sector is struggling, support is available.
You can contact:

• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
• Stay Afloat – mental health support specifically for Australia’s seafood industry

These services offer confidential support and resources for anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, or emotional distress.

Read more about this work here.