How rising temperatures could worsen mental health
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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 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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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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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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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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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.
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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.
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Practice stress management techniques - Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help manage feelings of stress and anxiety.