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Concentration difficulties -

High temperatures can make it harder to focus or think clearly. You might find it difficult to complete tasks that usually aren't a problem for you.

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Mood change -

You might feel more irritable, anxious, or depressed than usual with hotter weather. Some people might also feel more aggressive.

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Trouble sleeping -

Hot temperatures can disrupt your sleep. As a result, this can make you feel tired, grumpy, and can worsen mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.

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Feeling overwhelmed or stressed -

Heat can make you feel overwhelmed or stressed, especially if you're worried about the heat itself!

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Physical symptoms -

Heat can also cause physical symptoms that affect your mental health. For example, you might get headaches, which can make you feel sad or anxious.

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Changes in behavior -

The heat might make you act differently. For example, you might be more impulsive or have difficulty controlling your anger.

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Groups at highest risk for heat-related mental health issues -

High heat and changing weather can affect everyone's mood. However, some people have a higher risk of mental health symptoms associated with heat, including those living with chronic illness, dementia, pregnancy, substance abuse problems, preexisting mental health conditions, and financial difficulties.

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Chronic illness -

Limited mobility and worsened physical symptoms due to a chronic illness can impact your mood during heat waves.

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Dementia -

Dementia is a risk factor for hospitalization and death during heat waves.

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Pregnancy -

Poor mental health during pregnancy may lead to pregnancy complications or low birth weight.

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Substance abuse problems -

Substance abuse problems can make it harder to adapt to climate change. 

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Preexisting mental health conditions -

This is especially true for people taking antidepressants and antipsychotics, which may affect how the body regulates temperature.

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Financial challenges -

In the case of hot weather, financial challenges that don't allow for air conditioning or access to quality medical care could impact you mentally.

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Hot weather and suicide -

Studies have sadly found that when the temperature goes up, so do suicide rates. This seems to be especially true for men and older people.

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Suicide prevention -

So when it comes to suicide prevention, we should think about how hot weather might be making things worse.

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What this means for public health -

Studies show that we need to think about hot weather and climate change when we're making plans to keep people healthy.

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Heat waves and hospital visits -

When it's hot outside, people who already have mental health problems might feel even worse, and might need to visit the hospital. This means that hospitals and clinics need to be ready for more patients during heat waves.

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Climate change and mental health -

According to UCLA Health, more than 50% of Americans say climate change makes them anxious.

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Climate anxiety -

Climate anxiety, also referred to as eco-anxiety, refers to distressing feelings related to the impacts of climate change.

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Root cause of climate anxiety -

This type of distress is often rooted in feelings of uncertainty, lack of control, and concerns over well-being or safety.

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How to manage heat and mental health -

When the temperature starts to rise, there are a number of ways to protect your mental health.

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Stay hydrated -

Dehydration can worsen stress, anxiety, and irritability. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you're sweating a lot.

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Stay cool -

Try to spend time in air-conditioned places if possible. If you don't have air conditioning at home, consider visiting a public place that does. You can also use fans or take cool showers.

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Avoid being out during the hottest part of the day -

If possible, try to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. However, if you need to be outside, try to stay in the shade.

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Take care of your physical health -

Physical health supports mental health, so eat balanced meals, exercise, and get enough sleep.

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Wear appropriate clothing -

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to help stay cool. Additionally, light-colored clothing can help reflect the sun's rays when you're outside.

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Practice stress management techniques -

Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help manage feelings of stress and anxiety.

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Reach out to others -

If you're feeling down or anxious, reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional. They can provide support and help you find ways to manage your symptoms.

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Follow your treatment plan -

If you have a mental health condition and are under the care of a healthcare provider, continue to follow your treatment plan. Contact your primary care physician or mental health provider if your symptoms get worse during periods of extreme heat.

Sources: (UCLA Health) (Anxiety and Depression Association of America)

See also: The most intense heat waves in history

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