Extreme heat can negatively impact individuals with mental health issues.

The Impact of Heat on Mental Health: Navigating the Summer with Care

As the United States experiences record-breaking heat this summer, it not only tests our physical endurance but also poses unique challenges for those with mental health issues. Dr. Asim Shah, executive vice chair in the Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, explains that “all mental illnesses increase with heat because it results in more fatigue, irritability, and anxiety, and it can exacerbate depressive episodes.”

The effects of excessive heat on mental health can manifest as anger, irritability, aggression, discomfort, stress, and fatigue. Heat influences the neurotransmitter serotonin, which regulates mood, leading to lower levels of happiness and increased levels of stress and fatigue. In essence, the scorching weather can take a toll on our mental well-being.

Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of heat on mental health. Individuals with preexisting mental health conditions face heightened challenges, as do those who engage in substance abuse, particularly alcohol. Heat exacerbates the dehydration caused by substance use, necessitating even more careful attention to hydration.

Heat can worsen existing mental health issues, leading to increased aggression and mental fogging. In severe cases, individuals may experience confusion and disorientation, requiring immediate intervention and care.

So, what can someone with mental health issues do to navigate through the summer season? Dr. Shah offers some practical advice:

Stay Hydrated: Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining mental well-being. Ensure you drink plenty of water and keep your body cool by pouring water on your head. Protection from the scorching heat is essential, so cover your head and seek shade whenever possible.
Choose Indoor Activities: If you typically enjoy outdoor activities like walks, consider moving them indoors. Malls or large spaces with air conditioning provide relief from the sweltering heat while allowing you to engage in physical exercise.
Consult with Your Doctor: If you take medications for mental health conditions, consult your doctor before exposing yourself to excessive heat. Certain medications, like lithium, may not fare well in hot weather. As lithium is eliminated through the kidneys, increased sweating can cause fluctuations in drug levels. Adjusting dosage or avoiding heat altogether may be necessary to ensure stability.

Aside from the direct impact on mental health, climate change and extreme heat can also contribute to worsened air quality, triggering rises in pollutants and allergens. Children, in particular, bear the brunt of these environmental changes due to their physical and cognitive immaturity. Spending more time outdoors exposes them to greater amounts of pollutants and allergens, putting their health at risk.

As we enjoy the summer season, it is crucial to be mindful of the potential impact of heat on our mental well-being. By adopting simple strategies like staying hydrated, seeking shade, and consulting with healthcare professionals when necessary, we can navigate the challenges and prioritize our mental health. Remember, self-care is essential in all seasons.

For more information on heat and mental health, visit the American Psychiatric Association website.

Sources: – Baylor College of Medicine, news release, July 24, 2023

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