Can extreme heat affect your mental health?
Another summer of extreme temperatures may be behind us, but researchers are continuing to learn more about how heat affects your mental health.
High temperatures have been linked with changes in mood, sleep and thinking as well as more serious mental health concerns.
“Heat puts stress on the body and brain,” says Dr. Jada Johnson, a psychiatrist at Advocate Medical Group Psychiatry. “When temperatures climb, people may have more trouble concentrating or managing emotions.”
How can extreme heat affect your mental health?
Extreme heat can disrupt sleep and make it harder to recover from everyday stress. As temperatures rise, you may notice changes such as:
- Increased irritability
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Changes in mood
- Trouble sleeping
For some people, the effects can be more serious. Extreme heat has also been associated with increases in aggression and substance use as well as symptoms of depression.
Who is most vulnerable?
Extreme heat can affect anyone, but some people may be more susceptible to its effects. That includes those who already have a mental health condition.
Certain medications, including some antidepressants and antipsychotics, also can make it harder for the body to regulate temperature. If you take one of those medications, continue taking it as prescribed and talk to your doctor if you have questions about staying safe in hot weather.
Another international study also found that sustained extreme heat was associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for mental health conditions. The association was particularly strong among older adults.
How can you protect your mental health during extreme heat?
Taking steps to stay physically safe in hot weather can help protect your mental health, too. Johnson recommends:
- Drinking plenty of water
- Spending time in air-conditioned or cooler places
- Maintaining your normal sleep routine as much as possible
- Paying attention to changes in your mood or behavior
- Checking in on family members or friends who may be especially vulnerable
“Be aware of how you’re feeling during periods of extreme heat,” she says. “If you notice significant or persistent changes in your mood, thinking or behavior, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.”
