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Psychological distress has increased significantly following statements by the American president, Donald Trump, about Greenland. This is shown in a new study from the Center for Public Health in Greenland and Ilisimatusarfik (the University of Greenland). “We are seeing a marked decline in the population’s mental health and well-being compared to previous studies. Compared to last year alone, many more people are now experiencing poor mental well-being and lower quality of life,” said Professor Peter Bjerregaard from the Center for Public Health in Greenland in a press release. The number of citizens showing symptoms of psychological distress has more than quadrupled—from 7 percent in a population survey last year to 31 percent this year. Additionally, 76 percent of the population report experiencing a moderate or high level of concern in connection with the American president’s statements about Greenland. Major drop in quality of life The new study was conducted in January and February this year, with a total of 308 respondents completing the questionnaire. According to Peter Bjerregaard, the study provides a rare insight into how a geopolitical conflict is experienced at a very personal level: “It shows how quickly concerns and uncertainty can spread and affect many people’s daily lives.” Indeed, 82 percent of Greenlanders report that worries about what the United States might do are affecting their everyday lives. Furthermore, quality of life has dropped by 20 percentage points over the past year, with only 64 percent now stating that they have a high quality of life. Strength and solidarity However, the Naalakkersuisoq (Minister) for Health and Persons with Disabilities, Anna Wangenheim, also sees something positive in the new study. She writes on Facebook that it reflects the strength and unity of the population. The responses in the survey also show that more people are taking care of themselves—for example, by spending time in nature or talking with friends and family. “As we can also see, Greenland has strengths—such as using nature and talking with those closest to us. These are some of the strengths within our community,” Anna Wangenheim told KNR. —KNR

🚨 PRESIDENT TRUMP: Iran has until tomorrow at 8 o’clock to make a deal. After that, they’re going to have no power plants or bridges.